Today we have launched a consultation on proposed changes to the Standards of proficiency for each of the 15 professions we regulate.
We have worked closely with stakeholders to understand what changes are required and establish what the revised standards will look like.
The standards of proficiency are professional standards that set out what we consider necessary for safe and effective practice. They describe what professionals must know, understand and be able to do at the time they apply to join the Register. Registrants must meet these standards in order to become registered, and to remain on the Register as far as they relate to their current scope of practice.
Proposed changes
Following engagement with stakeholders in 2019, we have proposed changes to the generic standards that relate to all professions on our Register. These include amends to strengthen the role of equality, diversity and inclusion in the standards and the importance of ensuring that practice is inclusive for all.
Another key area includes the central role of the service-user, as well as the importance of informed-consent and effective communication in providing good quality care. Other changes focus on the importance of maintaining fitness to practise, considering the roles of mental health and seeking help where necessary. In addition, we have addressed the need to be able to keep up to date with digital skills and new technologies and the role of leadership at all levels of practice.
We have also offered some changes to the profession-specific standards, which are detailed on the consultation page. These are the standards which only apply to a particular profession.
Olivia Bird, Policy Manager, HCPC Policy and Standards says;
“The purpose of the consultation is to ensure that the standards remain effective and fit for purpose. As threshold standards, all registrants must meet these standards in order to become registered. They also outline what service users should expect from their health and care professional. Therefore, it is important that they are remain up to date and reflect current practice as well are understood by educators, employers and members of the public.
“We value the input of all who respond to this consultation. We want to ensure the standards are at the right threshold level for safe and effective practice, and continue to protect the public as a result of any changes we make.”
Find out more
To find out more about the standards and why they are important visit our standards of proficiency page.
For more information and to take part, visit the consultation page or email consultation@hcpc-uk.org
The consultation is open until 30 October 2020. This will be kept under review, taking into consideration any impact of COVID-19.
