Registration

The CLD Standards Council will introduce a scheme of registration for those working in CLD which fosters a strong sense of identity and a shared understanding of professionalism within CLD and its constituent strands. This understanding will be reflected in an increased awareness of and respect for our work by other partners.

We intend registration to:

• foster a strong sense of identity
• lead to a shared understanding of professionalism within CLD and its constituent strands
• increase awareness of and respect for our work by other partners

We believe individual members will value their own accountability for these commitments whilst practising in a professional manner.

We want to encourage those working in CLD to take confidence in the quality of their work, to promote and protect the values and processes of CLD work, and to join together to become a voice for the sector. Together we can secure improved leadership and delivery of services for individuals and communities, no matter where these services are located.

Registered workers will be recognised by other professional groupings and will invest in their own continuous professional development as a requirement and a right. They will have committed to the ethical principles which underpin our practice and will actively uphold and model the values and standards of our work.

Background

The issue of registration for CLD practitioners has been discussed for over a decade – the consultation following the Community Education Training Review found that “Support for a registration scheme and its benefits were definitely articulated.A clear majority was evident in the written responses, with the seminars more ambiguous. Respondents wanted to see any development addressing the perception that it might be seen as exclusive.

Nonetheless, the consultation indicated a positive desire to explore the potential of registration, and supported the development of concrete proposals.” (Empowered to Practice, Scottish Executive: 2003).