Overview

This bill aims to regulate the professions of counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK, prohibiting so-called "gay to straight conversion therapy," and establishing a code of conduct and disciplinary procedures for registered practitioners.

Description

The bill designates the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as the regulatory body for counsellors and psychotherapists. It explicitly outlaws "gay to straight conversion therapy," defining it as any attempt to change a person's sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual. This offence carries a fine. The bill mandates the creation of a code of conduct for registered practitioners, prohibiting conversion therapy, sexual activity with clients, and grooming for inappropriate sexual activity. The HCPC will investigate complaints and can impose disciplinary actions, including removal from the register. The bill will come into effect six months after its passage.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't explicitly state the financial implications for government spending. The costs will likely relate to the HCPC's increased responsibilities in regulating the new professions and enforcing the new code of conduct. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Counsellors and Psychotherapists: Will be subject to regulation by the HCPC, must adhere to a new code of conduct, and face potential disciplinary action for breaches.
• LGBTQ+ individuals: Will be protected from the harms of conversion therapy.
• Clients of counsellors and psychotherapists: Will benefit from greater protection against unethical or harmful practices.
• The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC): Will assume new responsibilities for regulating counsellors and psychotherapists.

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