In a significant development for the shooting community, the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) has announced a new partnership with ShootCert, appointing the Northampton-based provider as its recommended supplier of medical certificates for firearm and shotgun licence applications.
This collaboration comes in response to the ongoing challenges many applicants face in securing timely, affordable medical reports from GPs. Since 2016, all applications for firearm and shotgun certificates in the UK have required a medical certificate. However, when the British Medical Association withdrew from its agreement with the Home Office shortly after the policy was introduced, the process became inconsistent. Many general practitioners either opted out of providing certificates or charged prohibitively high fees.
To address the growing issue, BASC initially compiled a panel of sympathetic doctors. However, the organisation has now taken a step further by partnering with a dedicated, specialist provider to ensure a consistent, reliable, and quality-assured service for its members.
ShootCert, led by Dr Chris Garrett—a BASC member of over 40 years—offers an independent, doctor-led service dedicated to issuing firearms medical certificates. The company has earned strong endorsements from both BASC members and police firearms licensing departments for its efficient and professional approach.
As part of the partnership, BASC members will benefit from discounted rates when using ShootCert’s services.
The collaboration not only simplifies the application process for shooters but also strengthens the credibility and professionalism of medical assessments within the licensing framework—at a time when shooting sports face increasing levels of public and political scrutiny.
BASC members seeking further details are encouraged to contact their regional firearms officer or visit the ShootCert website for more information.
As a benefit, there is a discount for BASC members. For more information, members can contact their regional BASC Firearms Officer. If you’re looking to join BASC, you can find out about all the benefits of being a part of the UK’s largest shooting and conservation group.
