The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has announced it plans to increase its mandatory registration fee by a whopping 18 per cent – despite overwhelming opposition from its members. UNISON is calling on Luke Pollard MP, who represents Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, to sign a parliamentary early day motion to oppose the rise.
Paramedics, social workers and occupational therapists are among those regulated by the HCPC and must pay a yearly fee in order to provide their vital services. If the proposed cost increase happens, the regulator’s fees will have risen by 40 per cent in the past five years.
The Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP will be attending a UNISON event tomorrow (Friday), to hear from healthcare workers about how they’ll be impacted by the price hike.
UNISON area organiser, Simon Wintle said:
“It is hugely disappointing the HCPC has decided to go-ahead with such a big fee increase, despite fierce opposition.
“The HCPC should be doing all it can to support its members in their professions, instead of discouraging them with such a disproportionate hike in fees.
“We’re delighted Luke will be joining us on Friday to discuss the issue and we’ll be asking him to support an early day motion, to urge a rethink.”
Social worker Jaime Bannerman said:
“If we want to practise we have to pay the HCPC fees. There is only one regulatory council so we have no hope of switching to a cheaper option.
“If we don’t make sure our voices are heard now, how long will it be before there is another rise and we see friends and colleagues in real financial distress?”
What can I do now?
Write to your MP and ask them to sign Early Day Motion 2069 that calls on the HCPC to think again.
