As the year draws to a close, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the journey we’ve undertaken in 2024. This year has been marked by significant achievements and has been a testament to our commitment to our mission and values.

Perhaps the biggest milestone this year was the launch of our ground-breaking research into the shocking toll that accidents have on lives. The Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report found that accidental deaths in the UK have reached an all-time high, with the rate increasing by 42% over the last decade, making them the second biggest killer of people under 40.

The research led RoSPA to call on the Government to implement a National Accident Prevention Strategy to save lives, boost the economy and free up capacity in the NHS. This work will be ongoing throughout 2025.

Rewarding excellence

The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards 2024 saw glittering ceremonies in London and Dubai this year, with hundreds of winners celebrating their pioneering work in safety.

Facilities management company, EMCOR UK, clinched the highest accolade, the prestigious Sir George Earle Trophy, while Erika Curnow was declared winner of the Inspiring Woman in Safety 2024 prize and Hydro Aluminium UK Ltd were awarded the UK Best New Entry, with SOHAR Port and FreeZone clinching the international version of the award.

L’Oréal Pune won the Fall Prevention Trophy following a thrilling webinar where finalists presented their activities and attendees voted. Other winners can be found at: www.rospa.com/awards/2024-winners

We have now launched the 2025 health and safety awards, with key safety leader NEBOSH as headline sponsor. A major partnership with Veriforce CHAS, the trusted compliance and risk management specialist, will significantly simplify the pathway for CHAS members to complete the entry process.

Breaking new ground

In a landmark step, RoSPA set a new standard in global road safety as it was named as an accredited provider of Defensive Driver Training in the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers’ (the IOGP) Land Transportation Safety Practice document and launched a new qualification - the RoSPA Level 2 International Award in Defensive Driving.

We also launched an innovative new carbon monoxide hub in partnership with Wales & West Utilities, offering advice and resources.

RoSPA’s Policy Team were at the forefront of the debate on safety strategy across the nation, for instance Steve Cole, Director of Policy, Campaigns and Public Affairs, attended a Roundtable event in Westminster to discuss the Automated Vehicles Bill.

In October, Adrian Simpson, RoSPA’s Head of Policy and Press, shared Halloween safety advice on BBC Breakfast, BBC Radio Five Live, and several other media platforms, reaching an audience of millions. 

 

Exciting changes

2024 was a year of fond farewells and new beginnings.

After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who served as RoSPA’s patron for over 70 years, and the coronation of King Charles III, a large-scale review of more 1,000 royal patronages took place. We were delighted to find out earlier this year that His Majesty The King has become our new patron, underscoring the importance of our mission.

After five years of loyal service, our President, Baroness Judith Jolly, stood down from her position in 2024. We were honoured that Mary Watkins, Baroness Watkins of Tavistock, became part of our presidential team as Vice President, joining Deputy President Baroness Margaret Eaton and Life President Lord Jordan.

In April, Rebecca Hickman became RoSPA’s first female chief executive in our 100 year-plus history, following the stepping down of previous CEO, Errol Taylor back in October 2023. With over two decades of dedicated service, Becky's journey to CEO has been defined by key transformation initiatives. 

We'd like to thank everyone for their support this year and wish you all the best for 2025!