Who are we?

We are the Society of Anaesthetists for the South Western Region. An inclusive and active organisation run by anaesthetists, for anaesthetists since 1947. We host biannual academic meetings as well as having a range of social and developmental opportunities for anaesthetists of all grades and backgrounds.

What do we do?  

⦁ We hold biannual academic meetings in Spring and Autumn, that rotate around the region as an opportunity to learn, present, and network.

⦁ There is the opportunity for trainees to present their work and projects for valuable prizes.

⦁ We generously support key societies in the South West for their work including STAR, SWARM, SEASN and SAP.

⦁ We have a travel bursary to support trainees wanting to undertake overseas voluntary work.

⦁ We publish a bi-annual journal, Anaesthesia Points West, which provides updates from all the regional trusts, as well as educational articles. Trainees are encouraged to publish their work in the journal.

How can I get involved?

⦁ Join the society! Membership is affordable and provides a range of benefits, journal access and opportunities to apply for prizes and funding. 

⦁ Attend a meeting and get the opportunity to build CPD, keep up to date, see a different part of the region. At least as important is the opportunity to network with friends and colleagues, old and new. There is always a social dinner with music, good food, and a chance to have some fun.

⦁ Get involved in organising and committee roles to shape our future. We have a small society committee and separate local organising committees for each of the scientific meetings, rotating between South West trusts. Both of these committees have opportunities for all grades of anaesthetist, including trainee representative posts and lay committee members. The local committees are always looking for keen volunteers to help with the logistics and programmes and would welcome enquiries for future meetings.

⦁ Present your work and maybe win a prize! This can be at the scientific meetings where there are prizes for posters and oral presentations, or it may be written work, for example, the sustainability prize. There is also the option of submitting an article for consideration of publication in the regional journal. (Hint: the bar for acceptance is somewhat lower than the BJA!)

⦁ Apply for a bursary - our annual travel bursary offers an amazing opportunity for overseas travel and work. We also offer funding for local organisations. We are always keen to support valuable work within the region so do get in touch if you feel you have a worthy cause. 

How do I find out more? 

Browse our website and make contact with your local representative. There are also trainee representatives in both Severn (Victoria Ormerod) and Penninsula (Matthew Baldwin) who are always accessible. 

Whether you have something to present or not, attending a SASWR meeting is always enjoyable, educational and a great way to meet new and old colleagues. So, join up and come along!