Formal investigation of professional conduct
Where a concern raises potentially significant questions about a registered professional's conduct, competence or Fitness to Practise, the IPR may initiate a Professional Conduct Inquiry.
An inquiry is a fact-finding process.
It does not presume guilt.
Notice to the professional
The registered professional will normally receive written notification describing:
- the nature of the allegations;
- the relevant professional standards;
- information being considered;
- the process that will be followed;
- their right to respond;
- deadlines for submitting information; and
- possible next steps.
The right to respond
Fair process is fundamental to professional regulation.
Registered professionals must be provided with a reasonable opportunity to respond to allegations and submit relevant evidence.
Evidence may include:
- written statements;
- client records where lawfully disclosed;
- correspondence;
- contracts;
- informed-consent documents;
- professional notes;
- supervision records;
- CPD records;
- witness statements;
- training records;
- policies;
- audio or video evidence where lawfully obtained;
- expert opinion; and
- other relevant documentation.
Cooperation
Registered professionals are expected to cooperate with legitimate IPR Fitness to Practise proceedings.
Deliberately obstructing an inquiry, falsifying evidence or refusing without reasonable justification to cooperate may itself constitute professional misconduct.