Creating a Network - Irish Reflexologists' Institute

Guidelines to Setting-up and Running an Network

The purpose of an 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 Networks already available but there is scope and opportunity for new networks to be established should the need arise.

Criteria

The criteria for setting up an Network includes having members committed to meeting on a regular basis in a central location. The minimum number of therapists required to set-up a network is 4. 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, and details including leaders name and contact details, proposed dates for meetings, and time and venue have been decided, the Network can be recorded with IRI administration office via the online notification process and can be listed on the IRI website. There is a once off fee of €5.00 for this to 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 adhere to the ethos of the Irish Reflexologists Institute.
To provided 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 discussions of a holistic nature.
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 uphold and maintain standards of professionalism within the reflexology community
To promote the use of Reflexology as a complementary therapy
To arrange local reflexology based promotional activities to bring awareness to the availability of Reflexology in the local area.

Network Conditions

All Networks have the option to be listed on the IRI website so that IRI members can avail of CPD points for each meeting.
Networks should be self-financing
It is recommended that a list of members be maintained and attendance noted to enable cross checking for CPD approval if required.
Network leaders need to ensure adherence to the IRI Code of Ethics and Practice at all times as outline on www.reflexology.ie

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 can be found here