Governance
Charity status
We are a charity and a company limited by guarantee. Our purpose is defined in our governing document as:
Increasing the knowledge of the branch of science known as psychoanalysis including, but not limited to, training persons to practise psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy and improving the treatment of psychological and mental health problems by the technique of psychoanalysis
As a charity, we are run to provide benefit to the public.
Vision
We aim to build on our long history of excellence, both in training and in the contribution of our members to psychoanalytic knowledge and research, to create a sustainable future, both financially and in terms of our membership.
Our strategic plan for the next five years (2025-2030) aims to maintain and strengthen the position of the BPaS at the forefront of psychoanalysis in the UK and internationally.
Mission
Our mission focuses on:
- Education and development
To train psychoanalysts to further the clinical and scientific position of psychoanalysis in the UK and internationally.
- Influence
To strengthen the impact and visibility of psychoanalysis and to influence how it is practiced and perceived.
- Enhancing treatment
To develop and promote high quality psychoanalytical treatment.
Collaborative partnerships
We are committed to forming strong partnerships on both national and international levels. Our collaborators include the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA), the European Psychoanalytical Federation (EPF), the National Health Service (NHS), the British Psychoanalytical Council (BPC), likeminded organisations and government bodies. These partnerships are crucial for advocating psychoanalysis and advancing its practice.
Values
Equal opportunities
We are committed to equal opportunities and to maintaining an environment free from discrimination, victimisation, harassment and bullying. We will make sure that everyone who we deal with receives equal treatment irrespective of their sex, marital or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, race, colour, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, disability or age.
We have a Board member who is responsible for the oversight of equality and diversity matters and for ensuring the principles of equality and diversity pervades our work.
Sustainability
As a charity concerned with peoples’ health and well-being, we recognise that our future health and happiness is tied to the health of our planet.
We are committed to implementing the requirements of all relevant sustainability legislation and regulations and, where possible, exceeding any relevant minimum requirements.
We will promote the concept of sustainable development, will monitor our use of natural resources, both non-renewable and renewable, and maximise the efficiency and effectiveness with which they are used, with a view to minimising environmental impacts.
BPAS Statement on Non-discrimination Principle
The British Psychoanalytical Society respects the rights of members to individual expression.
It practices non-discrimination in its relations with members, groups of members of this Society and fellow IPA psychoanalytic societies as well as in national and international relations. The Society does not endorse political views nor solicit the participation of members in political controversy.