Overview

This bill establishes the Health Professionals Council as the regulatory body for counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK. It introduces a code of ethics, including a ban on gay-to-straight conversion therapy, and outlines complaint and disciplinary procedures.

Description

The bill amends the Health Act 1999 to include counsellors and psychotherapists under the regulatory remit of the Health Professionals Council.

Key Provisions:

• Registration: Counsellors and psychotherapists will be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Code of Ethics: The HCPC will create and publish a code of ethics which all registered practitioners must adhere to. This code will specifically prohibit gay-to-straight conversion therapy.
• Complaints and Discipline: The HCPC will investigate complaints against registered practitioners. Breaching the code of ethics can lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or permanent removal from the register. Breaching the ban on conversion therapy will result in permanent removal.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify the direct cost to the UK government, as the funding of the HCPC's regulatory activities is likely ongoing rather than a new expenditure resulting directly from this Bill. The costs will likely be absorbed within existing government budgets for health regulation.

Groups Affected

• Counsellors and Psychotherapists: They will be subject to regulation, including registration with the HCPC and adherence to a code of ethics. This could mean additional costs for registration and professional development.
• Patients: They will benefit from increased protection through a regulatory framework and a defined complaints procedure. The ban on conversion therapy offers specific protection against harmful practices.
• The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC): They will take on the responsibility of regulating counsellors and psychotherapists, requiring additional resources and workload.

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