What does “Registered” actually mean?

What does “Registered” actually mean?

As you'd expect, healthcare is tightly regulated. After all you wouldn't want someone without the requisite skills treating you. To ensure you know who you're dealing with many healthcare titles are protected by law, meaning only those who are properly trained and assessed can use them. The title of “Pharmacist” is one of those protected by law. This means only those who have the required training 5+ years can apply to become a pharmacist by entering the register, held by the General Pharmaceutical Council - GPhC. The GPhC require their standards to be upheld at all times and registrants must undertake a continuous cycle of learning and development to insure their competence.

 

The title nutritionist however is not protected, meaning this title can be used by anyone. However, Registered Nutritionists and Registered Associate Nutritionists are different. We are regulated by the Association for Nutrition - AfN. This is the independent regulator of Registered Nutritionists and Registered Associate Nutritionists, holding the UK voluntary register of nutritionists (UKVRN). To be on this register, you must have a high level of knowledge of nutrition, usually demonstrated by a degree level of education within the Nutrition sphere. The AfN, like the GPhC, require those on their register to work to their defined high standards and undertake mandatory continuous learning to ensure they stay competent in their role. This is why those registered with the AfN are the only nutritionists recognised by the NHS and Public Health England (PHE).  You can look for the AfN logo as a sign of registration or search the register here: Search the Register - Association for Nutrition

 

So, whoever you choose to help you on your nutrition journey, remember to ask them:

  • What are their qualifications? 
  • Where is their qualification from?
  • Are they regulated by a professional body?
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