FAQs

FAQs

What is a voluntary register?

A voluntary register is a list of people who carry out a particular type of work. It is held by an organisation, sometimes a professional body or an independent body that sets standards for qualifications and entry to the register, monitors whether its registrants meet them and can take disciplinary action against them if they do not. It can remove them from the register.

What is an assured approved register?

This is a voluntary register that has been approved by the Professional Standards Authority.

I am a health professional. Do I have to register with the Professional Standards Authority?

No. We do not hold registers for individuals, we will accredit organisations who hold voluntary registers.

When will this scheme start?

We plan to start it in December 2012.

How much will it cost an organisation to apply?

We have not decided our fees yet because we are developing the process. However, we will be operating the accreditation scheme on a not for profit basis.

Will it be compulsory for health and social care workers to join a voluntary register?

No. It is not mandatory. It is a useful way however for health and social care workers who do not have to be registered by law to demonstrate to employers and the public their commitment to providing good quality care.

If someone is struck off a voluntary register, does it stop them from working in health and social care?

It does not automatically preclude them from doing so. If you are a member of the public, employer or commissioner you can check whether someone has been struck off a voluntary register as the information will be made publically available.

What standards will you use to tell if a register is being run properly?

We will be developing standards over the next few months.

How can I find out more or contribute?

We will publish updates on our website. Contact christine.braithwaite@chre.org.uk or rachael.desouza@chre.org.uk for more information.