Paul Battersby named president of FHT

Paul Battersby has been named as the new president of FHT (Federation of Holistic Therapists).

The FHT is the professional association for complementary, holistic beauty and sports therapists in the UK and Ireland.

Battersby was elected by the FHT governing council at the organistation’s 2016 annual general meeting. He takes over from Jennifer Wayte, who was president for seven years.

Battersby is a practicing therapist and university lecturer. He will be assisted in his role by vice presidents Gerri Moore, Herman Fenton, Mary Dalgleish and Shailini Karia; as well as newly elected vice presidents Christopher Byrne, Jonathan Hobbs and Maria Mason.

“As a practising therapist and university lecturer, I am well aware of the support and comfort our members bring to their clients, on a day-to-day basis. I am also very aware of the challenges we continue to face as professional therapists – from poorly or non-qualified practitioners impacting our good reputation, to the need for further recognition from medical and other professionals.

“With an experienced governing council and staff at my side, we will work as a team to continue promoting the importance of high standards in therapy training and practice, and to gain more recognition for the valuable work our members do in supporting the health of the nation.”