British Life Assurance Trust

The organisation was founded in 1966 as the 'British Life Assurance Trust for health education in association with the British Medical Association'. It was established as a charitable trust with the objective 'by means of audio visual aids to promote the further education of the medical profession and public generally in the fields of preventative medicine and health'. The Trust was formed of trustees from British Life Offices (Life Offices' Association and Associated Scottish Life Offices) and trustees from BMA including BMA's Chair of Council, Secretary and Committees. Meetings were mainly held at BMA House, Tavistock Square.

The Trust promoted and financed the production and exhibition of audio visual aids (including printed matter, films, television, videos, cassette tapes, discs, photographs and exhibits), co-ordinated and advised on production, research into the production and effectiveness of audio visual aids. The Trust also approved finished products through a Trophy award. A BLAT Centre for Health and Medical Education was later established at BMA's offices at BMA House.

From 1987 the name by which the Trust was widely known was changed from BLAT to BLITHE (British Life Assurance Trust for Health Education), and was sponsored by Association of British Insurers (successor to Life Offices' Association) and the BMA. By 1987 staffing and related funding issues were apparent and in March 1989 solicitors resolution for dissolution of the Trust were agreed. The Trust was dissolved at the final meeting held 26 April 1990 at Aldermary House, City of London.