The CPD Conversation
A hub for updates on the GCC's Continuing Professional Development (CPD) review - why it's happening, what we're learning, and how you can get involved.
Why we're reviewing CPD
The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) has begun a strategic review of its Continuing Professional Development (CPD) model and reporting process - the first formal review since 2017.
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, and with a clear shift across UK healthcare regulation towards more outcomes-focused CPD, this is the right moment to ensure our model remains robust, relevant and fit for the future.
Since 2019, improvements have been made to CPD guidance, the reporting system and reflective elements. This review builds on that work and is aligned with the GCC's new Code of Professional Practice, which came into effect on 1 January 2026.
Key reasons for the review:
- The CPD model was last formally reviewed in 2017 - the regulatory landscape has changed significantly since then.
- UK healthcare regulators have broadly shifted towards outcomes-focused CPD emphasising critical reflection and impact on practice.
- The review forms part of the GCC's 2026–2030 strategic period, supporting alignment with the new Code of Professional Practice.
What we're doing
The review is structured around four key areas of work. Year one (2026) focuses on research, evidence and foundations; year two (2027) will be more decision-oriented.
Timeline of the CPD Conversation
The GCC wrote to the chiropractic professional associations to inform them of the upcoming review of the CPD model and the Royal College of Chiropractors. The communication outlined the purpose of the review, its scope, and what it is expected to mean for registrants.
The May 2026 GCC newsletter also included information about the CPD review for registrants. This provided an overview of the proposed changes, the rationale behind the review, and what registrants may need to consider in advance.
To support understanding and engagement, an explainer video was produced and shared alongside the newsletter content, offering a clear summary of the key points and intended outcomes of the CPD review.
In March 2026, the steering group membership was formally confirmed, bringing together representatives to help guide and support the review process. The steering group then held its first meeting, where members discussed the project approach, governance arrangements, timelines, and initial outputs from the early stages of work, including legislative and policy analysis, horizon scanning, and emerging thinking around potential future CPD models.
Informal engagement took place at the RCC Winter Conference, where registrants and attendees were invited to share their views on the current CPD model, including what they felt worked well, what challenges they experienced, and what they would like to see improved or changed in the future. During this period, the project leads also met with key members of the GCC executive team to discuss the scope of the review, initial priorities, and early considerations for the project.
Insights and Resources
Blog: Introduction to the CPD Conversation
In this blog, Daniel Moore, GCC Education Committee member, outlines the GCC’s review of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), including the aims of the review, what is being explored, and what registrants and stakeholders can expect at this stage.
Video: Introduction to the CPD Conversation
Frequently asked questions - F.A.Qs
The GCC is undertaking a strategic review of its CPD model - the first formal review since 2017. It reflects changes across UK healthcare regulation and forms part of the GCC's 2026–2030 strategic period.
No. Nothing is changing at this stage. Registrants should continue to follow the current CPD requirements exactly as they are. Any changes would only follow a proper consultation process with plenty of notice.
Clarifying the definitions and boundaries of CPD is one of the key workstreams of this review. In the meantime, please refer to the current CPD guidance on the GCC website. Greater clarity on definitions is a priority focus for the project.
The review is overseen by a steering group of lay and registrant Council members. The steering group meets three times a year and reports to the Education Committee. Any significant recommendations will go through the GCC's full governance processes.
Engagement sessions for registrants, professional bodies and the public will be announced as confirmed.
