Appeals Process for Disciplinary Outcomes

National Alliance of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (NACP)
Effective: January 2025

1. Purpose

This policy outlines the process by which NACP members may appeal a disciplinary outcome that has resulted from a formal investigation. It ensures members have the opportunity to seek a fair review of decisions made, where there are valid grounds for appeal.

2. Scope

This process applies to:

• All members of the NACP who have been subject to a formal disciplinary decision following a complaint or breach of policy
• Appeals made in relation to decisions such as:
  • Formal warnings
  • Conditions placed on membership
  • Suspension or termination of membership
  • Rejection of reinstatement requests

This process does not apply to complaints dismissed without investigation or to informal feedback.

3. Grounds for Appeal

Appeals will only be considered where one or more of the following apply:

• New and relevant evidence has come to light that was not available during the original investigation
• There was a procedural error or unfairness in the handling of the disciplinary process
• The outcome or sanction is considered disproportionate to the breach
• There is evidence of bias, conflict of interest, or prejudice in the original process

Appeals submitted on the basis of disagreement with the outcome alone, without valid grounds, will not be accepted.

4. Submitting an Appeal

To submit an appeal, the member must:

• Email a written request to: appeals@nacp.co.uk
• Submit the appeal within 10 working days of receiving the disciplinary outcome
• Clearly state the grounds for appeal and include all relevant documentation or evidence

Acknowledgement of receipt will be provided within 5 working days.

5. Appeals Review Panel

An Appeals Panel will be convened, comprising individuals not involved in the original investigation. The panel will:

• Review the disciplinary file and the member’s appeal submission
• Seek clarification or additional evidence from any party, if needed
• Ensure impartiality, fairness, and objectivity throughout the review

In some cases, a hearing may be offered to allow the member to present their appeal verbally.

6. Possible Outcomes

The Appeals Panel may decide to:

• Uphold the original decision
• Modify the outcome (e.g. reduce a sanction, amend conditions)
• Overturn the decision entirely
• Refer the case back for re-investigation if procedural flaws are confirmed

The decision of the Appeals Panel is final and will be confirmed in writing within 20 working days of the appeal being reviewed.

7. Confidentiality

All appeal submissions and deliberations will be handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with data protection laws. Only those directly involved will have access to relevant information.

8. Record Keeping

• A full record of the appeal, decision, and rationale will be kept securely by the NACP
• Appeal decisions may be used to inform improvements in NACP policy or disciplinary processes

9. Non-Retaliation

Members who submit an appeal in good faith will not face any form of retaliation or disadvantage within the organisation.

📩 Contact

For questions about the appeals process or to submit an appeal:
📧 appeals@nacp.co.uk
🔗 www.nacp.co.uk