The Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists

In accordance with the Memorandum and Articles, all Members and Students of the Institute shall in writing undertake to adhere to the following:- (members must note that because an item is not mentioned, it does not mean that it cannot constitute a breach of Ethics). As chiropody/podiatry in the United Kingdom is a legally regulated profession within the scope of the Health Professions Order 2001 (and subsequent amendments) attention is specifically drawn to the provisions of that act and the requirements of the legal entity created for its implementation; the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The contents of this document should be read in conjunction with the specific legal obligations and requirements placed upon Chiropodists and Podiatrists as registrants of the HCPC. Breaches of such legal requirements would additionally be regarded as breaches of the Institutes own ethical code and be dealt with in the manner laid down for such occurrence. Associates who are not HCPC registrants are still bound by the requirements of ethical, decent and lawful behaviour at all times and are subject to the same sanctions of the Board of Ethics as would apply to a HCPC registrant member. PROFESSIONAL DEFINITION “Chiropody/Podiatry” means the scientific care of the foot and directly related structures of the lower limb in health and disease in line with the best evidential paradigms existing at the time of such care. “Chiropodist/Podiatrist” is a protected professional title recognised in law and may only be used by an individual registered with the HCPC if that practice is within the United Kingdom. It is a criminal offence for such titles to be used by anyone who is not currently so registered even if they possess qualifications which relate to the titles such as diploma, certificates or degrees in chiropody or podiatry or any variation thereof which could be taken to imply they are currently registered as Chiropodists/Podiatrists. Members in practice outside the United Kingdom must comply with any legislation defining titles and their use that are applicable in their country of operation.