With millions of Brits tuning in to watch shows like ‘Supersize Vs Super Skinny’, the UK’s fascination with diet and health has resulted in dietetics and nutritionists becoming some of the fastest growing professions in the UK. Yet as more nutritionists and dieticians’ decide to set up on their own, many face a barrage of fines and litigation if their advice proves to be negligent, and impacts negatively on the physical well being of a client.
The new year traditionally brings with it a determination to take care of our health. While this is a lucrative opportunity for practicing dieticians and nutritionists, online small business insurer Insurantz.com is warning that many are still unaware of the risks facing their livelihood without professional indemnity cover .
Typically, they can earn up to £38,000, but the rich pickings may be short lived if advice given is not protected or in line with current legislation.
James Pickering, managing director of Insurantz.com, said: “Dieticians will have cover if they are members of the British Dietic Association however there is no obligation for nutritionists to take on cover. In most cases, nutritionists provide a valuable service which enables people to make better lifestyle choices and radically transform their quality of life. However, in the worst case scenario, negligent advice can be given which could cause the client to become ill and even take time off work. Without professional indemnity cover, this could not only ruin their reputation but they may have to fork out for thousands of pounds on a client’s claim for bodily injury or loss of earnings.”
There are over six thousand registered dietitians in the UK,* with this number set to rise as the credit crunch spurs on practitioners to set up from home. Training to become a dietitian usually consists of completing a degree in Nutrition or Dietetics providing eligibility for registration with the Health Professions Council, which is essential to work as a dietitian in the UK.
