The Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) is a registered charity working to enhance skills and knowledge within operating departments, associated areas and sterile services departments. As a membership organisation, AfPP works to enhance the quality of care in the NHS and the independent sector across the UK. AfPP was established in 1964 as the National Association of Theatre Nurses (NATN). In April 2005 the organisation changed its name, structures and systems in recognition of the significant changes that were happening in the healthcare sector. The addition of 'perioperative' was to further accommodate the growing numbers of Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) and Healthcare Support Workers (HCA, HSWs) previously not eligible for full membership.