The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC)

The General Osteopathic Council regulates the practice of osteopathy in the United Kingdom. By law osteopaths must be registered with us in order to practise in the UK.

The main role of the GOsC:

  • Patients consulting an osteopath have the same safeguards and rights as when consulting a doctor or dentist.
  • Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and treatment, recognized by the British Medical Association as a distinct clinical discipline.
  • Under the Osteopaths Act of 1993, osteopathy was accorded statutory recognition, and the title “osteopath” protected by law. In the UK it is now a criminal offence to describe oneself as an osteopath unless registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
  • The GOsC regulates, promotes and develops the profession, maintaining a Statutory Register of those entitled to practise. Practitioners on the Register meet the highest standards of safety and competency. They have provided proof of good health, good character and have professional indemnity insurance.
  • You can obtain details of an osteopath’s registration by telephoning the GOsC on 020 7357 6655.

“The General Osteopathic Council regulates the practice of osteopathy in the United Kingdom.”