What should do you do if you get a fitness to practise complaint? What can you expect from the process? How long does it take, what are the possible outcomes, and where can you go to get support?

To answer these questions Paula spoke with Nicholas Stöckling, who works with psychologists and other health professionals as a regulatory adviser providing legal and emotional Fitness to Practise guidance, as well as webinars and training for professional bodies.

In this conversation, Nicholas discusses his extensive experience with fitness to practise issues and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). He shares insights into the emotional and professional impacts of fitness to practice complaints on health professionals, particularly psychologists. The discussion covers the purpose of the HCPC, the investigation process, potential sanctions, and practical advice for professionals facing complaints. Nicholas emphasises the importance of understanding the process, seeking support, and maintaining mental health during challenging times.

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To get in touch with Nicholas you can contact him via email or LinkedIn.

Listeners may find the following resources helpful:

ACP-UK Webinars (free to members):

• Demystifying the HCPC Part 1
• Demystifying the HCPC Part 2
• Navigating the Grey Zone: Everyday Boundary Dilemmas in Psychological Work (live on 16th October 2025)

Emotional Agility by Susan David – an accessible book offering practical strategies for navigating uncertainty and psychological pressure.

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I’d love to connect with you so do come and find me on LinkedIn or at my website and do check out the ACP-UK and everything it has to offer.

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