Professional Conduct FAQs

Professionals are required to adhere to professional and ethical standards set out in a code of practice by their professional regulatory body.

Any alleged breach of these standards can lead to investigations by the regulatory body, which will determine whether the person(s) under investigation should remain a member of the professional body or have sanctions imposed upon their registration, licence or membership as a result of the alleged misconduct.

The body can consider whether a person is fit to practise, study or remain in membership.

When you go through a fitness to practise or disciplinary investigation, your professional regulator or employer will want to know that you have gained ‘insight’ into the issues that you face and understand why you are appearing before them.

If you are unable to demonstrate genuine insight, your regulator or employer will be concerned that you risk repeating the behaviour or practice for which you are being investigated. This could result in a harsher outcome and sanction.

It's important to demonstrate that you have considered and recognise why concerns may have been raised about you — even if you don’t agree with them — as well as how you could have behaved differently and whether you have taken steps to engage in remedial work (for example, by attending relevant courses or engaging in therapy/treatment). Essentially, you need to demonstrate improved behaviours and practices.

Genuine insight cannot be demonstrated overnight. Time needs to be taken to show continued improvements over a period of time. You should then demonstrate your remediation by writing about what you have learned in a reflective statement.

Professional regulators investigate a wide range of issues relating to a professional’s performance, health, personal and professional behaviour, which can include behaviours outside of the workplace that could bring the profession into disrepute.