Trying to find applicants on the HCPC register

[Fordian]

Difficult question; I’ve just been interviewing for people who need a professional registration to practice (in an private facility), and, as part of the process we search applicants on the Register but of the last 3, I just couldn’t find them under any name.

All 3 answered ‘yes’ to HCPC registration; one actually provided their reg number in their CV, but the registered name bore no relation to the name given in their application.

I find this concerning. In my last NHS job, there was a fear of the accusation of discrimination if the name badge didn’t correspond to the name on the rota, but surely we should be asking and checking that there is some identifier linking our candidate/employee to their HCPC registration?

10 years ago, at work, we had to all prove our registration annually but that has lapsed.

Is there a sensible way of tackling this discrepancy?

I think I would just ask - by email if possible so you've got a written record of what you're doing. As long as you treat everyone the same in terms of requiring accurate information to show their registration, a case against you for discrimination hardly seems likely to prosper.

They might be lying. I would ask 'under what name are you registered with HCPC?' and then ask for a paper trail to link that name to them. Surely they need to update their name with HCPC if they have changed it. If it's still their legal name they would have some ID in that name.

Ask for documentation of their registration.
then contact the HCPC directly to raise a query.

I’m HCPC registered and have to email proof of my renewal each cycle to HR. Ask them for that.

I always asked candidates to bring confirmation of their HCPC registration when they came for interview then photocopy it for their interview paperwork

Thanks everyone. I moved out of an NHS ‘situation’ 2 years ago, newly working alongside evidently unqualified staff, yet, apparently ‘certified’ by the HCPC.

So, can my company say:

please provide your HCPC registration number.

If the name under which you have registered does not correspond with the name under which you are applying for this position, please explain why.

Is that allowed?

My manager checks everyone’s registration annually on the register. It is our responsibility to make sure we are registered as it would be illegal to work otherwise. Anyone who is not there will instantly be paid at an unqualified rate until they renew.
So if you cannot find these people on the register you need to tell them so and get them to check they are there and under what name and reg number.

Some HCPC Registrants practice under their maiden name. However, if they were applying for an advertised position then they should make this clear.