Our Standards

P.A.N. accreditation assesses whether practitioners and services operate within clear, defined standards appropriate to their role and level of public contact. Standards are applied proportionately and reflect the nature, risk, and complexity of the work undertaken.

Core standards include:

  • Safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults

  • Professional boundaries and ethical conduct

  • Governance, accountability, and oversight

  • Lawful information handling and data protection

  • Risk management and safe working practices

  • Complaints handling and professional discipline

Standards & Public Protection

P.A.N. exists to promote safe, accountable professional practice where individuals, services, and organisations work directly with the public, particularly children, families, and vulnerable people.

Accreditation provides independent assurance that appropriate standards are in place. It does not replace legal, statutory, or professional responsibilities.

Public Protection

Public protection sits at the centre of the P.A.N. framework. Accreditation confirms that practitioners and services are subject to assessment, ongoing compliance expectations, and accountability mechanisms.

Where concerns are raised, P.A.N. may review practice, impose conditions, suspend accreditation, or remove accredited status where standards are not met.

Accountability and Transparency

Accredited practitioners and services:

  • Are listed on a public verification register

  • Are accountable to published standards and codes of conduct

  • Are subject to complaints and review processes

Accreditation may be withdrawn where required to protect the public.

What Accreditation Means

Accreditation confirms that standards have been assessed and are in place at the time of review. It does not guarantee outcomes, replace statutory oversight, or remove responsibility from practitioners or organisations. Accreditation evidences that all policies, procedures and working standards are in place, that you show a commitment to excellence and adhere to clear professional boundaries and public expectations.