It has been announced that as of 1st March 2009, the FHT Ireland, which operated as an independent association has been incorporated into the UK based Federation of Holistic Therapists. The decision has been taken following consultation and the obvious benefits to Irish therapists that result.

Irish therapists can take advantage of the enhanced membership services that the FHT provide and a greater support network than ever before. They will benefit from increased awareness, as the FHT is the leading association for complementary therapists proactively bringing the industry to the top of the political agenda, as well as into the homes of the general public.

As the largest complementary therapy organisation in the UK, with nearly 20,000 members, Ireland's therapists will receive considerable cost savings as a result. Membership fees have been reduced (Annual FHT Ireland membership is now only £80) while member benefits will improve. Carina Fagan, Vice President of the FHT, will continue in her role to support FHT activities in Ireland, commenting upon the change she says,

"This is a great opportunity for Ireland's therapists to make a real impact, as we are now part of a much larger organisation representing the same cause. The FHT has been working for many years in the political and education arenas to raise the status of member therapists. As result, standards of practice have improved and we are taken much more seriously as an industry which is something that Irish therapists really want to be part of.

I will continue to represent Irish therapists but as part of the FHT Governing Council I can work more proactively, representing the interests of Irish professional practitioners and supporting the FHT activities in Ireland."

As a result of the changes all administrative operations will be carried out from the FHT's head office in Eastleigh, however the FHT Ireland Helpline (016771076) will remain the same with no increase in call charges.

Chief Executive of the FHT in the UK, John French believes it is a move that will benefit all, "We are pleased to be working on behalf of therapists in Ireland and will continue with our work to improve the status of our industry. We have established a strong network of influential supporters throughout the UK that has resulted in our industry gaining coverage and respect with politicians, health practitioners, the media and the general public. Therapists in Ireland will benefit from this increased profile, as well as receiving cost savings and access to the many training courses that we run."

For further details on the FHT on 0844 875 2022 or visit the FHT website at fht

Source
FHT