HCPC publishes revised standards of proficiency speech and language therapists

The standards of proficiency are the professional standards that every registrant must meet in order to become registered, and must continue to meet in order to remain on the HCPC Register. The standards set out what professionals should know, understand and be able to do to practise safely and effectively.

The standards of proficiency are divided into generic standards (which apply to all HCPC-regulated professions) and standards specific to each profession. The HCPC Council approved revised generic standards in March 2011 and the HCPC is now working to update the standards that apply to each individual profession. The revised profession-specific standards for speech and language therapists have been published as part of this process.

Michael Guthrie, Director of Policy and Standards, commented:

“We have worked closely with the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists to review the standards for their profession and asked them to make recommendations. We also consulted on proposed changes and are grateful for the feedback we have received from all our stakeholders.

“The changes we have made to the profession-specific standards for speech and language therapists ensure that they reflect current practice and include language that is appropriate to the profession.”

The HCPC will now work with education providers to gradually phase in the new standards.

To download a PDF version of the Standards of proficiency, visit www.hcpc-uk.org/aboutregistration/standards/standardsofproficiency/