Somewhere in every HCPC registration cycle, the same feeling surfaces. The renewal notice arrives, the declaration has to be made and CPD starts to look less like development and more like a hoop to jump through.  But have you ever really asked yourself what we are maintaining when we maintain our CPD?

The HCPC exists to protect the public, and it holds that obligation on the public’s behalf, which is why we are required to declare at each renewal that we have continued to develop our knowledge and skills. It is the mechanism by which the public can trust that the therapist in front of them is practising with current knowledge and skills.

The HCPC is clear that CPD is not just formal courses. It is any activity from which you learn and develop, it can be work-based learning, which includes reflecting on experience and considering feedback from service users or directed learning, such as reading a journal article or a book.

 

Equipment manufacturers can help

Abacus Specialist Bathroom Solutions, for example, want to support your CPD journey and run several educational 'Abacus Academy' sessions, developed and delivered by occupational therapists such as myself:

Previous CPD webinars including: Adapting the bathroom: Accessibility and aesthetics with Kate Sheehan, occupational therapist

 

OT Show 2026:

Innovation Theatre

• Does the Disabled Facilities Grant meet our client’s needs in 2026?
   

Abacus on stand CPD (D20)

• FUNdamentals - the importance of bathing in play and leisure occupation
• Showering – what space is actually needed?

 

Conclusion and takeaway

Recording CPD is critical and whatever tool you use it only works when it is picked up regularly, rather than remembered in a panic. Ideally you set aside time once or twice a week to look back at what you have learnt and reflected upon.