Controls assurance

26 August, Warwick 'Controls assurance' is a conference in response to a recent NHS Executive circular (HSC1999/123) requiring, for the first time, chief executives to sign a statement on organisational controls and risk management. The presentation will be led by the authors of the circular and leading NHS authorities on control assurance. Details: Barry Dudfield, 01203-351351 ext 3218.

Breaking the boundaries

2 September, London The NHS Primary Care Group Alliance is organising a conference looking at the way in which PCGs might impact on the local provision of complementary medicine and should be of interest to all health professionals and managers. 'Breaking the boundaries - towards a new policy framework' will hear views from, among others, a PCG chair and an MP. Details: Barbara Wider, 01392-424872.

Radiotherapy conference

3-5 September, Nottingham This year's radiotherapy conference of the Society and College of Radiographers offers a forum for discussions under the headings ' behind the scenes', 'evidence-based practice', 'the Q-word' and 'education: making it happen'. Details: Seromanie Bernard, 0171-391 4517.

Shaping leadership

9-10 September, Birmingham Birmingham University's health service management centre is organising a programme entitled 'Shaping the leadership' which will enable participating pairs of primary care group chairs and chief executives to work on their own roles and relationships in the company of seven other pairs facing similar challenges. Details: Margaret Moloney, 0121-414 7052.

IT conference

10-11 September, Cambridge The primary healthcare specialist group of the British Computer Society will hold its annual conference with keynote presentations relating to the topics of privacy and confidentiality of privileged health information.This year's John Perry Lecture will be given by Dr David Markwell. Details: Mrs J Hayes, 01886-833848.

PCG lay member training

13-14 September, London 19-20 October, London The College of Health is offering a two-day workshop designed to help lay members of primary care groups become more effective. Details: Francesca Avbara, 0181-983 1225.

NHS finance

24 September, London 'Developments in NHS finance' is a course organised by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy. The event covers the financial implications of the establishment of primary care groups; working with social services and pooled budgets; and commissioning. Details: Alexandra Aarons, 0171-543 5751.