Copy of Code of Ethics to be completed by all Members
CODE OF ETHICS
The Code The Code of Ethics describes the basic ethical principles that all the complementary health practitioners agree to and commit themselves to. It offers the inspiration of a joint commitment to excellence as well as to the security of a complaints procedure to the client. These principles still apply if we are offering training, supervision or support, in groups or individually.
Ethical Principles The Relationship between Practitioner and Client
We acknowledge that the relationship between practitioner and client is a special one and must serve the best interests of the client. A good working relationship is an essential part of effective treatment. The practitioner carries certain responsibilities and any exploitation of this position or oppression of the client is unethical. Sexual activity between practitioner and client within this relationship is totally inappropriate and unethical. Affectionate gestures, such as hugging may be used in a sensitive way and only when acceptable to both parties. We will ensure that satisfaction of our emotional needs does not intrude on the relationship.
The client's dignity and integrity must be respected at all times. We affirm the client's right of self-determination. One goal of our work is to enhance his or her progress in the direction of self-responsibility. The client always has the right to refuse or terminate anything proposed or undertaken by the practitioner. We make this explicit at the beginning of the relationship.
The practitioner and client make a mutually acceptable clear contract which addresses precisely and openly the questions of fees, time involved, frequency and number of sessions, technique of treatment, limits and ground rules, confidentiality, availability of follow-up, referrals etc. as appropriate. We make available to the client the Code of Ethics and Practice we work under.
We recognise that there can be a duality of roles wherein a possible conflict of interests may occur. Wherever this is applicable this will be discussed openly before any treatment starts. It is our responsibility to make boundaries explicit and clear. We retain the right not to work with certain people but not in a way that would result in unfair discrimination.
Confidentiality and Records
The relationship and all knowledge of the client is treated as confidential by the practitioner and may only be disclosed with the client's specific consent or - if there is a clear evidence of probably serious danger - to the client or others. For supervision, research, teaching and publication purposes the identity of the client must be concealed.
We keep records of the sessions in a confidential and appropriate way and our records about the client should be available for their inspection.
Practitioner's Support and Further Education
Each practitioner carefully monitors the limits of their own competence and confines their work within these limits.
· We commit ourselves to
maintain and extend our knowledge and skills appropriate to our practice;
getting extra support and supervision as required;
pursue our personal growth, spiritual practice and the fulfilment of our personal needs outside our complementary health practice.
Advertising
Advertising will be confined to descriptive statements about services available and details of methods and qualifications, without comparative evaluation or extravagant claims about the efficacy of our practise method.
Complaints Procedure
In the case of any complaint, this should be first addressed directly to the practitioner and/or then to their professional association. If this is not possible or doesn't lead to a satisfactory result, a formal written complaint may be made to IPHM where it will be bought before our Accreditation Board. The complainant must sign a declaration that they will accept the recommendations given by our Ethics panel. IPHM members must abide by this decision.
We reserve the right to cancel your membership without refund should you be found to be in breach of this code of ethics.
Membership fee is £45 per annum. You will need to subscribe and make payment on the website by either PayPal, credit or debit card before we accept your application. On completion of payment and your application being successful you will receive a certificate of membership from IPHM and a therapy badge if required. You will need to attach a current passport size photograph. Should your application not be approved we will make immediate refund in full of any payment made. You will be notified of your acceptance by email within 7 working days and your documents posted to you within 12 working days. Cost of membership is accurate as of 2012. We reserve the right to increase this if necessary, but you will be notified prior to renewal.
T & C's Please note that by subscribing to iphm your annual subscription will automatically be taken out of your account each year unless cancelled. You will be issued with a new certificate each year. Should you wish to cancel your membership then please cancel this within one month of renewal. Once you have cancelled your subscription your details will be removed from our website. Please note only iphm members are entitled to use the letters iphm after their name and use our logo.