As part of UPCA’s commitment to public protection, ethical practice, and professional standards, all members are expected to maintain up-to-date knowledge and understanding of safeguarding relevant to their area of work. Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with current safeguarding guidance, including the safeguarding resources published by the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), alongside any legal, professional, or workplace requirements applicable to their practice.
From the 2026–2027 membership year (1 September 2026 – 31 August 2027), a requirement for current safeguarding training will be formally incorporated into the UPCA CPD and Membership Policy. As part of the membership application and renewal process, members will be required to upload evidence of their most recent safeguarding training certificate.
This update is being shared in advance to allow members sufficient time to review their current safeguarding training arrangements and ensure that their training remains current and appropriate to their practice setting. Safeguarding awareness forms an important part of safe, ethical, and competent clinical work and supports practitioners in responding responsibly to the needs of children, young people, and adults at risk.
Further guidance regarding safeguarding expectations and acceptable forms of training will be made available ahead of the 2026–2027 renewal period.