Insurance, licences and client records: is your paperwork up to date?

Something that doesn't get discussed enough is the paperwork therapists need to keep on top of, particularly when working independently.

Insurance is one thing, but there are also consultation forms, treatment records, qualifications and, depending on the treatments and borough, local licensing requirements.

It's worth reviewing these things regularly rather than waiting until there's a problem.

For example, does your insurance cover every treatment you're currently offering? Have you checked whether additional qualifications are required for specialist techniques?

And if you're renting a room, do you know which responsibilities belong to you and which belong to the premises operator?

We've put together two guides that may help:

• Massage therapist insurance

• Special treatment licences in London

There's also a free client consultation form available for members to download and adapt.

Licensing requirements can differ between London boroughs, so it's always worth checking directly with the relevant council.

How do you manage your client records? Do you still use paper forms, or have you moved everything online?

And has anyone found a particularly straightforward system for keeping their paperwork organised?