Policy and strategic engagement

A key aspect of the Partnership of Counselling and Psychotherapy Bodies (PCPB) involves collaborative efforts in policy activity, advocacy and communication, aimed at promoting the SCoPEd framework, the profession and its value to parliamentarians and policy-makers across the UK.

This work also enables us to speak collectively with one voice on areas of mutual concern.

The PCPB’s work in this area is led by the Policy and Strategic Engagement Group, chaired by Dr Lisa Morrison Coulthard (Director of Professional Standards, Policy and Research at BACP), together with one representative from each of the six partners.

Current policy and engagement priorities

VAT exemption

PCPB is campaigning to remove VAT exemption on counselling and psychotherapy services.

Stakeholder engagement and advocacy

PCPB is carrying out engagement and advocacy for greater recognition and understanding of counselling and psychotherapy, including with government, the public and other stakeholders.

Standards and ethics

This work highlights the importance of accredited registers in building public confidence by ensuring shared standards across the partnership. The SCoPEd framework and accredited registers help maintain consistent standards across all partners, in collaboration with the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

The future of the profession

Using an evidence based and insights driven approach to understand the evolution of the profession, the contexts in which our practitioners work and how the partnership can support this moving forward.

Policy and strategic engagement