.png)
The JCCP is of the firm opinion that short courses which are accredited for Continuing Professional and Personal Development (CPPD) and offering CPD points should not be considered equivalent to initial training courses for the aesthetic industry. CPPD should be only provided as evidence of proficiency to practice to individuals with existing experience and verified qualifications in the relevant field for which they seek to practise. CPPD courses are designed to improve, refresh, and update knowledge and skills throughout one's career and are not suitable to be used and cited as a license to practice for those without prior experience and initial training in aesthetics. Holding a CPPD Certificate is meant to enhance competence, not to serve as a substitute for primary qualifications.
The JCCP has investigated complaints filed against education and training providers in the non-surgical aesthetics and hair restoration industry since 2018. We have a specialised team of complaint handlers who investigate such complaints who often escalate complaints to appropriate entities, including professional statutory bodies like the General Medical Council, the General Dental Council, or to the Nursing and Midwifery Council, as well as the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), Ofqual, the MHRA, the Gambling Commission and Trading Standards.
Our goal is to enhance standards within the aesthetic training industry by offering transparency regarding our observations and the types of complaints we are receiving.
From March 2024 to April 2024, for example there were 40 complaints lodged on the JCCP, complaints portal against education and training providers operating in the United Kingdom, none of which are approved by the JCCP. It is crucial to highlight that the JCCP thoroughly investigated all 40 complaints and found evidence supporting the need to refer these education and training providers for further scrutiny and report to UK regulators.
The complaints cover a variety of topics, including a provider offering 'qualifications' to individuals under 18 for administering fillers and allegations of ‘scams’ by former students due to use of illegal products resulting in students and models being injured and in one case requiring surgery. The NHS reported that the treatment received by the ‘patient/model’ was life-threatening, with cases of sepsis being reported. We have also noted the most prevalent form of complaint relates to concerns about the use of unlicensed products applied and promoted during training sessions and sharing the same prescription only ‘named’ medicine or product among multiple clients without providing prescriptions.
These complaints are taken seriously to ensure that all educational and training providers adhere to the highest standards of excellence. By reporting any concerns or issues regarding unacceptable standards of education and delivery assist in maintaining patient safety, public protection and the integrity of the education system and safeguards the interests of students and of course members of the public. The work by the JCCP complaint handlers plays a vital role in promoting a positive learning environment for all stakeholders, including trainees who often pay extremely high fees for unaccredited or valid qualifications. The JCCP has noted a spike in complaints regarding training providers in the past 6 months, giving rise to concerns of mis-selling courses, misleading students, models sustaining injury and the evident link to the rise in the use of unlicensed toxins.
By working closely with professional statutory bodies and other. National regulatory agencies, the JCCP complaint handlers can ensure that all concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. This collaboration allows for a thorough investigation of each complaint, leading to fair and appropriate resolutions. By fostering these relationships, the JCCP can continue to uphold its commitment to transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting both the industry and the individuals it serves.
We strongly believe that practitioners must have access to quality education and training from accredited providers to excel in their careers. That is why we have developed a thorough two-part series. The initial segment, "Avoiding misleading training courses: Tips for Practitioners" acts as a vital tool for practitioners looking to distinguish reliable education and training courses from misleading ones. This guide provides practical advice and tactics, empowering professionals to make informed choices and opt for exceptional training options.
Expanding on the initial groundwork, the second guide, titled "Guide for Education and Training Providers: Best practices" redirects attention towards the providers. This guide aims to equip education and training providers with the essential tools and knowledge needed to maintain industry standards and provide outstanding service.
