The Bath General Practice Education and Research Trust

The Bath General Practice Education and Research Trust (BGPERT) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation committed to supporting the continuing professional development and education of general practitioners (GPs) primarily in Bath and the surrounding regions of North East Somerset and Wiltshire. Registered as a charity under the number 1005171, BGPERT plays a vital role in enhancing clinical skills, knowledge, and collaborative practices among healthcare professionals in primary care.[3][4][5]

Mission and Activities

BGPERT aims to provide high-quality educational events tailored to the needs of GPs at various stages of their careers, from mid-career practitioners to those in late stages, often referred to as the "Wise 5’s." Through this, BGPERT seeks to strengthen general practice by fostering skill development, clinical excellence, and professional resilience within the community.[5]

The organisation regularly hosts a diverse range of educational events — approximately 40 annually — covering clinical and non-clinical topics relevant to the general practice curriculum with a focus on local healthcare pathways and patient care. These events include workshops, masterclasses, study afternoons, and online sessions that facilitate shared learning and interaction between GPs and specialists from hospital departments.[1][2][5]

Educational Programmes and Membership

BGPERT membership currently includes about 380 GPs from Bath and the wider Bath and North East Somerset and Wiltshire areas. Members have access to a comprehensive continuing professional development (CPD) programme designed to meet appraisal requirements and improve clinical practice. The Trust supports a range of initiatives such as GP mentoring schemes and encourages involvement in teaching medical students as a means to share expertise and enhance personal resilience.[5]

Governance and Structure

As a registered charity, The Bath General Practice Education and Research Trust operates under the governance frameworks stipulated by the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Its governance includes trustees who oversee the strategic direction and ensure compliance with regulatory and financial requirements, maintaining transparency and accountability in its operations.[3][4]

Impact

BGPERT’s ongoing dedication to educating GPs contributes significantly to the quality of primary care in its service regions. The Trust’s events enable practitioners to stay updated with advances in medicine and management strategies for complex conditions. The collaborative environment nurtured by BGPERT also supports the wellbeing and professional satisfaction of GPs, which ultimately benefits patient care.[1][5]

This summary provides an overview of The Bath General Practice Education and Research Trust, highlighting its role as a key supporter of GP education and research in the Bath area and surrounding counties.

[1] https://www.bathgped.co.uk/events/ [2] https://www.bathgped.co.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/1005171 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1005171/charity-overview [5] https://bswtraininghub.nhs.uk/professional/gp/