HCPTS | Information for witnesses

If you are asked to take part in a hearing, your role is vital. Your evidence can make a significant difference to the outcome. By sharing your first-hand account, you are helping the tribunal reach a fair decision.

On these pages, you can find practical information on what to expect before, during and after a hearing, as well as details of the support available to you.

Being a witness in a fitness to practise case

A witness is someone who saw an event, part of an event, or has relevant background knowledge about it. Anyone can be a witness in an HCPC case, including service users, colleagues and members of the public.

You may be asked to be a witness if you raised concerns, were involved in the incident, know the registrant or received treatment from them. When we investigate an allegation, we speak with witnesses to build a clear picture of what happened. Your contribution is important because it helps us understand the concerns fully and make informed decisions about a registrant’s fitness to practise.

Providing a witness statement and giving evidence

Learn how to prepare and share your account of events. Here you’ll find guidance on writing a witness statement, what it means to give evidence, practical tips, and the special measures and support available to help you.

Your guide to a hearing and what to expect

Find out how hearings work and what will happen if you are asked to attend. This section explains who will be there, what you will be asked to do, how long hearings usually take, and the support available if you are a vulnerable witness.

After the hearing

Understand what happens once a hearing ends. This section explains how you will be told about the outcome, what the possible decisions are, and what support is available after you have taken part.

Support available for witnesses

We appreciate the process of attending a HCPTS hearing and giving evidence before a panel may be unfamiliar to you. The HCPTS aim to hold hearings in a fair and inclusive manner and appreciate that everyone has different needs.

Below are examples of adjustments and support we can provide.

Documents and correspondence	We can provide letters or documents in large print or other accessible formats. We can post documents (such as statements or bundles) on request.
Test call before the hearing	A Hearings Officer can arrange a test call to help you practise using Microsoft Teams and answer your questions.
Support person	You can have someone approved to support you during the hearing and this could include: a friend/family member as emotional support and who will not speak in the hearing; or reader/intermediary who will review documents and assist with understanding the process. They can sit with you or help you read and understand documents, but they cannot speak on your behalf. Independent lay advocacy services, such as POhWER, are also available for those eligible.
Financial support	We cover reasonable travel and accommodation costs for attending a hearing in person. You can also claim for loss of earnings and related expenses, in line with our Witness Expense Policy.
Special measures	Hearings can take place in person, virtually, or as a hybrid. You may be able to use pre-recorded evidence as your main account. Interpreters, sign language support, or intermediaries can be arranged. Physical screens or turning off your camera may be used if needed. Other measures can be agreed if they help you give your best evidence.
Protecting your privacy	Your name can be anonymised in documents. Exhibited documents may be redacted. Identities can be concealed (e.g. “Person A” or “Service User B”). In exceptional circumstances, hearings may be held in private.
Cross-examination in cases of a sexual nature	If the registrant is representing themselves, they can only cross-examine you with your written consent. If you do not consent, we will appoint a legally qualified person to ask questions on their behalf.
Debrief after the hearing	Speak with the Hearings Officer about any questions or concerns. Share your experience through our Witness Feedback Form.

Please contact the Tribunal Service if you would like to discuss any support you may need.

We also have a dedicated factsheet that gives more information on the support available for hearing participants.

Contact details and witness feedback

If you have questions about your hearing date or what to expect, please contact the Tribunal Service team.

We are always working to improve our services and value feedback from everyone who takes part in a hearing. Feedback is reviewed regularly and any learning points are shared with the FTP department.

You will receive a link to provide your feedback at the conclusion of the hearing.

Information for witnesses brochure

This brochure explains more about your role of being a witness at a hearing, what happens before and after a hearing, and what support is available to those attending.