GCC Investigation and Adjudication: Fitness to Practise Procedures
Complaints and the role of the GCC
The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is the regulatory body responsible for chiropractors.
Since 14 June 2001, the title of 'chiropractor' has been protected by law. Therefore it is essential for chiropractors in the UK to be accepted on to the GCC Register in order to work. The remit of the GCC is set out in the Chiropractors Act 1994. The work of the GCC is governed by this and other associated legislation.
Most cases of alleged impairment are referred by employers and the police. However, anyone can refer an allegation to the GCC. They will not normally take action if the information is provided anonymously, but if they feel it relates to serious and credible concerns about a registrant’s fitness to practice, they might consider whether they should take further action to protect the public.
When the GCC can take action
As part of their duty to protect the public, the GCC have the power to take action by either removing or restricting a chiropractor's registration if they fall seriously short of the high standards expected. They cover all registered chiropractors whether they work in the NHS or in private practice. The GCC can consider cases where a registrant's fitness to practise may be impaired due to their:
- Conduct which falls below the standards required of a registered chiropractor
- A lack of professional competence
- A conviction (at any time) for a criminal offence in the United Kingdom
- Physical or mental health
GCC Sanction and Disposal options
- Admonishment
- Set conditions of practice that you must meet
- Suspend you from practicing
- Strike your name from the GCC Register (which means you will not be able to practice)
- Interim suspension order
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