Fitness to practise

Being reported or self-reporting to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for a Fitness to Practise (FTP) issue can be a very stressful and anxiety-provoking experience. If this has happened to you, we want you to know that you’re not alone, and we’ll support you.

Support 

From RCOT

The Professional Advisory Service (PAS) is a member benefit, and we are here to help you. We offer:

  • Non-judgemental support
  • Advice and guidance
  • Signposting to resources
  • Clear explanation of the FTP process
  • Collaborative working with UNISON’s Professional Services Unit (PSU) where appropriate

If you need support, please contact us at hello@rcot.co.uk or call 020 3141 4630. The service is open Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm.

From UNISON

If you are an RCOT member who is also a member of UNISON (i.e. not wholly self-employed), you can access its Professional Services Unit (PSU) if eligible. The PSU provides Case Management support, legal advice and representation at hearings.

You will need to ask your local UNISON Rep to refer you to the PSU.

For further information please see:

From HCPC

You can also contact the HCPC FTP Support Service which provides independent and confidential emotional support and advice.

For further information please see:

Things to consider

  • if you hear about an FTP concern against you or if you report yourself to the HCPC, quickly get in touch with UNISON (if you're a member) for professional support. Also, reach out to the RCOT Professional Advisory Service for support. Make sure to contact UNISON and/or RCOT before contacting HCPC
  • don’t ignore communications from the HCPC; it’s very important to engage with the process
  • try to take things one step at a time and remember that you can only control what you are able to
  • don’t suffer in silence and seek help from others
  • remember that you are not alone and don’t have to deal with this process on your own
  • it is not the role of RCOT to make a judgment on your practice; as a member of RCOT, we are here to support you.

FAQs

Further resources