HCPC launches £28.8m framework to support fitness to practise casework

The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has announced a major procurement initiative worth up to £28.8 million to secure external support for its fitness to practise (FtP) caseload.

The four-year framework will enable the regulator to appoint legal and investigative providers to assist with case preparation, hearings, and advisory services across its 15 regulated professions. The move comes amid rising volumes and complexity of FtP referrals, particularly in areas involving clinical risk, safeguarding, and professional misconduct.

HCPC’s tender outlines the need for scalable, high-quality support to ensure timely resolution of cases and uphold public protection. The framework will be divided into multiple lots, covering legal advice, advocacy, and case investigation, with providers expected to demonstrate sector-specific expertise and capacity to manage sensitive regulatory matters. The regulator has emphasised its commitment to transparency and efficiency, noting that delays in FtP processing can have significant consequences for registrants and service users alike.

This investment signals HCPC’s strategic shift toward more flexible and responsive FtP operations, aiming to reduce backlogs and improve decision-making consistency. It also reflects wider pressures on healthcare regulators to maintain public confidence while navigating resource constraints and evolving professional standards.

Disclaimer: The accuracy and information of news stories published on this website is accurate on the date of publishing. We endeavour to update stories if information change. You can contact us with change and update requests. Where possible, we will link to sources. Content on this website is for guidance purposes only. We cannot accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.