GOC publishes updated Hearings and Indicative Sanctions guidance
The GOC has published updated Hearings and Indicative Sanctions guidance, which improves clarity for Fitness to Practise Committees (FtPCs) when considering applying sanctions as part of fitness to practise proceedings.
The updated guidance forms part of the GOC’s ongoing commitment to improve transparency and trust in its fitness to practise process. Last year, the GOC held a consultation on the proposed changes, receiving feedback and views from a range of stakeholders including professional bodies, public bodies, membership organisations, and others, including the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
In response to feedback received, the GOC made improvements to make the guidance clearer and easier to navigate. These include:
- A clear definition of hearsay, including examples to support FtPCs when applications rely on hearsay evidence.
- An explanation of factors such as situational vulnerability and special measures that might support vulnerable witnesses in providing best evidence.
- Minor edits to the language to reflect a more balanced approach to dishonesty.
- Updated section on Review Hearings to better reflect circumstances where a Review Hearing might be required.
- Clear definitions to distinguish between sexual harassment and sexual motivation.
Carole Auchterlonie, Director of Regulatory Operations, said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank everyone that responded to our consultation. Your feedback has been important to ensure that the guidance is up-to-date and fit for purpose.
We’ve listened to your feedback and where appropriate, we have made updates to the guidance so that is clearer, without being prescriptive, for our Committees when considering whether or not to apply sanctions.
This updated guidance marks an important next step in our journey to improve our fitness to practise process and make sure it’s fair for all involved.”
The updated guidance will apply to all future hearings from 20 July 2026. The previous guidance will apply for any part heard hearings which started before 20 July 2026 and have not yet concluded.
