British Association of Therapeutic Touch
(BATT)

CODE of CONDUCT

The Code of Conduct contains statements explicitly aimed at establishing and maintaining an acceptable standard of practice and behaviour from BATT members. They have been devised in the best interest of clients, the general public and all members of the association. For practitioners it provides a supportive framework for professional conduct, as well as a means for discussing ethical issues and clearly identifying behaviour(s) incompatible with membership of the association and good standing of the practice of TT.

This code is not intended to replace members' Codes of Ethical and Professional Conduct that govern other aspects of their work with clients, patients or groups. It has been specifically developed for BATT members who have successfully completed accredited or recognised courses in Therapeutic Touch, and are offering this therapy to clients. Practitioners are reminded that they are also subject to behaviour that does not breach Common and Criminal law in the UK (and European Law, where applicable).

It is recommended that practitioners consider supporting their developing practice with ongoing clinical supervision. Frequency of meetings will be dependent on numbers of clients as well as the practitioner's own current requirements

1. The practitioner's primary duty is to practice her/his skills to the best of her/his ability for the benefit of the client. This requires the practitioner to maintain and improve skills, knowledge and competence, be honest in any written or verbal communications with clients and the general public about her/his competence to practice, boundaries of the therapy and level of training. If any advice or treatment is requested that falls outside of the practice of TT the practitioner should also make it explicit in what capacity they are responding e.g. as a reflexologist or physiotherapist.
   
   
2. Ongoing consent is integral to the ethical practice of TT, a client must be free and able to stop, refuse or seek further information and explanation prior to and during any part of the therapeutic intervention.
   
   
3. A practitioner has a duty to maintain a client's confidentiality. Information can only be given to a third party when the practitioner has discussed the request with the client and they have clearly expressed consent. Clients' records must be treated with the same respect and stored in a locked cabinet; they should be in a form that can be read by the client on request. Exceptions to the confidentiality principle are confined to: -
   
   
   • disclosures required by due process of the law such as an order of the court or by statutory instrument.
     
     
   • clients who become a danger to themselves or to society.
     
     
   • is necessary in the public interest.
     
     

   The client should ideally be informed of this possibility first, and the practitioner should seek the guidance of a solicitor if required to breach confidentiality by law.
   

4. Practitioners must take into account the values, customs and spiritual beliefs of clients and not discriminate for example; on the basis of gender, sexual preference, race, colour, age, health status, ethnicity, political or religious belief, class or societal status.
   
   
5. The practitioner uses her/his position and skills to promote the client's ability to self-heal, enhance well-being, further personal empowerment and autonomy. She/he will not use it for personal enhancement or to exploit the client financially, emotionally or practically. The practitioner must not enter into flirtatious, seductive or sexual relationships with a client. If a sexually charged atmosphere occurs within a session this should be contained preferably through open discussion or the session discontinued. If necessary, clarity should be sought through clinical supervision.
   
   
6. A practitioner must ensure that her/his health and personal hygiene do not compromise her/his practice. Cuts and abrasions must be covered by a waterproof dressing. Personal attire should be clean, well maintained and appropriate for professional practice. Whilst working with a client the practitioner must not eat, drink or smoke. Practising under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other substance likely to affect judgement is not compatible with ethical conduct.
   
   
7. The therapy/clinical area used to see clients must take into account privacy, safety, cleanliness, adequate lighting, ventilation, warmth and quietness. Any stairways should be kept clean, clear and well lit. Local and national by-laws and fire regulations must be adhered to at all times.
   
   
8. Hand washing facilities with a hot and cold water supply should be easily accessible for both practitioner and client. A toilet connected to public drainage system and working should be available. These facilities must be clean and tidy, with toilet paper, soap and hand towels available for client usage.
   
   
9. All equipment must be kept in good repair and serviced regularly. Treatment couches must be of a sound construction, clean and in good working order. Blankets, pillows and cushions should be in good condition and clean and paper roll and tissues disposed of appropriately.
   
   
10. A practitioner member should direct any criticisms and complaints about fellow colleagues to the association's committee, rather than to the general public or individual clients, either verbally or in writing.
    
    
11. A practitioner must not knowingly enter into a therapeutic relationship with a client whose doctor has clearly stated that TT would be contraindicated. If the client reveals that s/he is currently receiving medical treatment, the practitioner must review the appropriateness of continuing with TT. If at all unsure, encourage the client to first seek advise from their doctor.
    
    
12. If a practitioner suspects that a client is suffering from a medical condition they should never give a medical diagnosis to a client, but they must advise the client to see her/his doctor and record this action
    
    
13. A practitioner must not countermand instructions and prescriptions given by the client's medical practitioner.
    
    
14. At all times, practitioners of TT should strive to work in a collaborative and co-operative manner with other health workers and support, recognise and value their contribution to the care team.
    
    
15. The practitioner must take care in promoting her/his services, making no claims to 'cure' diseases or problems; drawing attention in a dignified way to the therapy available, the qualifications of the practitioner and general intention of the work, so as not to discredit the profession.
    
    

A member must ensure that her/his professional practice is fully covered by substantial public liability indemnity insurance.