AOS Conference Deciphering the code A reminder of what is planned for this months virtual AOS Conference ollowing long-awaited clarity regarding the revised timelines for the governments consultation on the Private Parking Code of Practice, the Approved Operator Scheme Conference will now take place this month, to enable members to receive the most relevant and up-to-date support and guidance. Sessions throughout the day will explore what operators can do to respond effectively to the consultation, as well as how they can plan for future transition arrangements and what resources are available to help make the process as easy as possible. Alongside Sara Roberts, head of Conformity Assessment Body transition, Sara Fisher, head of operations and business development, and members of the BPAs operational services team, a number of experts from the private parking sector will be on hand to offer advice and assistance. This is the final chance for our members and their clients to make their voices heard about the valuable service parking management offers, and the need for parkingcharge levels and debt-recovery fees to be a sufficient and effective deterrent, Roberts says. It is important that everyone engages. The conference will provide our members with information to help them do that. F Training and complaints handling For Roberts and the rest of the operational services team, the conference will also be important for helping members get ready for clauses in the Code that are unlikely to change as a result of the consultation. For example, we know that mandatory training for staff will be a requirement, so one of the sessions, run by Sara Fisher, will look at the training that operators need to have in place for their employees, Roberts explains. There will also be a demonstration of one of the training modules and the learning management system available to our Approved Operators. We will showcase the Approved Operator Hub that we have created to support members, so they know where to find answers to the questions they have, and further help. Gemma Dorans, senior conformity assessment manager, will examine early implementation and provide an update on Clause 11 of the Code, which is all about complaints handling. We will look at the power of data from a Code perspective as well, adds Roberts. Help to prepare Former BPA President and parking consultant John McArdle will facilitate the conference, which is a virtual event to enable as many members as possible to attend. Important information When: Thursday 20 April 2023 What: 10.30: Conference welcome 10.45: Private Parking Code of Practice update and government consultation process 12.30: Lunchtime sponsored session (to be confirmed at time of writing) 13.45: Mandatory training; AOS hub info and other resources 14.45: Code of Practice implementation and planning for the next changes 16.00: Closing comments How: To find out more, and to register, go to britishparking.co.uk/BPAAOS-Conference We are all still unsure as to what the final outcomes of the consultation will be, but together, as a community, we can support each other, says Roberts. The BPA is here to help you prepare. We look forward to seeing you at the conference and will continue to keep you updated on any developments, and support you via regular webinars and information on the Approved Operator Hub. 30 PN Apr 2023 pp30-31 AOS conference.indd 30 23/03/2023 10:52