Creating a Network - Irish Reflexologists' Institute

Guidelines to Setting-up and Running an IRIL Network

The purpose of an IRIL Reflexology Network is to bring therapists together in a holistic environment where they can support each other on their reflexology journey. This support network can include treatment swaps, and reflexology related presentations, and discussions. By sharing experiences it helps to enhance and enrich the work of reflexologists while keeping in touch with others in a supportive and meaningful way. There is an extensive list of IRIL Networks already available but there is scope and opportunity for new networks to be established should the need arise.

The criteria for setting up an IRIL Network includes having a minimum of 4 members who are committed to meeting on a regular basis in a central location. Each Network will appoint a Network Leader who will take on the role of organising a programme and communicating dates, times, and a venue which is suitable to all. This role can alternate between members. Once this has been established the details including leaders name and contact details, proposed dates for meetings, and time and venue, should be forwarded to the IRIL office so this can be added to the list of established networks.

Networks have proven to be beneficial but they are particularly important to support newly qualified reflexologists who are just starting out.

The Aims of a Reflexology Network:

To support the objectives of the Irish Reflexologists Institute
To provide a locally based reflexology community where support advice and mentoring is available from experienced reflexologists
To share experiences, knowledge, skills and techniques through practical hands-on sessions and theoretical discussion
To maintain industry standards and keep up-to-date with any new developments within the holistic sector
To give therapists the opportunity to become familiar with different reflexology techniques and styles available through different teaching methods
To offer opportunities to bring awareness to the general public on the benefits of Reflexology
To promote the benefits of reflexology by organising talks, demonstrations and taster sessions at health fairs and exhibitions
To encourage and promote Continuous Professional Development as required
To maintain standards of professionalism within the reflexology community
To promote the use of Reflexology as a complementary therapy
Articles of Network News and Reflexology interest are always welcome for inclusion in the IRIL ezine/newsletter
To make members aware and promote any CPD courses or workshops as listed on the IRIL website
To arrange local reflexology based promotional activities to bring awareness to the availability of Reflexology in the local area

Network Conditions

The Network leader must be a current member of the IRIL
All networks must be listed with the IRIL so that the members can avail of CPD points for each meeting
Networks should be self financing
A Register of members must be kept and attendance noted for every meeting to cross check CPD approval
Networks must always adhere to the IRIL Code of Ethics, and Code of Practice at all times
IRIL Network meetings are open to all Reflexologists but only IRIL members may participate in public activities where the IRIL is officially represented.

CPD Credits for Network Meetings

Attending a Network meeting 20 pts
Setting up a Network (once off) 30 pts
Organising each Network meeting 10 pts (extra)
Hosting a Network meeting in your home 10 pts (extra)
Attending a Network meeting with Treatment swaps 20 pts
Attending a Network meeting with a Speaker/Demonstration 20 pts
Attending a Network Meeting with Shared case studies 20 pts
Maximum CPD points allowed per Network Meeting 30pts

Further details on CPD explained under Training and Education