The Summer 2021 edition of the SOLAS Newsletter (Issue 70) reflects a Society beginning to emerge from the restrictions of the pandemic while retaining many of the changes that had worked well. President Lynne Alexander highlights the strong results achieved through remote examinations and the unexpected success of online CPD, with increased attendance and the March National Seminar proving so popular that a second session had to be arranged. SOLAS was beginning to consider a blended future combining online and face-to-face events, while preparing for the return of the National AGM and Annual Dinner in Dundee in November.
Branch reports demonstrate how firmly virtual activity had become established. Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow continued delivering online CPD, often attracting members who might previously have struggled to attend in person. Glasgow’s online AGM attracted more than 80 members, while Edinburgh developed a varied programme covering AML, mental health and resilience, Capital Gains Tax, wills and Deeds of Variation. At the same time, branches were keen to restore the social and networking element of SOLAS and continued encouraging members to become involved in their local committees.
The newsletter also marks the return of normal CPD requirements, with members required to complete five structured and five unstructured hours by 31 October 2021. Education remained a major focus: SOLAS successfully adapted its Evening Course and examinations for remote delivery, with 31 students passing all three examinations during 2020 and five achieving Distinction in every subject. Positive feedback, particularly around flexibility and reduced travel, led SOLAS to continue delivering the 2021/22 courses online. The edition also promoted September’s Private Client Seminar, welcomed newly admitted Associate Members and looked ahead to the return of in-person SOLAS events.
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