Friday, 20 June, 2003

AMLA launched at Amicus-MSF Conference

The Association of Medical Laboratory Assistants (AMLA) was launched on 20 June at the Amicus-MSF health sector annual conference in Blackpool. Maureen Jenkins, Chairman of the new Association, spoke at the conference about the desperate need for such support for Medical Laboratory Assistants nationwide. She was very positive that this was an excellent step in the right direction for their futures as MLAs.

AMLA was launched by Amicus, and although single membership for either organisation is available, joint membership will provide staff with the complete package of advice and guidance for all professional and industrial issues throughout their employment, giving members more continuous advantages and security.

There are a number of major issues such as the introduction of National Occupational Standards, the intention of the Government to register support grades of staff and the opportunities for professional progression afforded by the healthcare scientists plan, which suggest that the time is right to form a professional association for those employed as Medical Laboratory Assistants in the Health Service. AMLA will create a collective voice and stronger identity for MLAs comparable to other groups such as the National Association of Phlebotomists and Association of Anatomical Pathology Technicians.

The new Association has an office at 12 Coldbath Square and has its own website, email and telephone numbers. If you would like an application form or want to know more please contact the AMLA office on 020 7713 8050 or email mail@amlauk.org.

"Together we can build a solid foundation, make a difference and prepare the way for our future as a professional group with a very valid contribution to make within the NHS."

Maureen Jenkins, AMLA Chairman