Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Trusted Massage Therapy Organisation in Edinburgh
Established in 1992, the Scottish Massage Schools (SMTO) exists to serve the public, massage therapists, and the profession. We collaborate with the General Council for Massage and Soft Tissue Therapies (GCMT) to develop and maintain industry standards, operating under approval from the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) as a verifying organisation. Our primary mission is to enhance public protection by ensuring members meet National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Massage Therapy. All members must adhere to our Code of Conduct, Performance and Ethics, and comply with disciplinary, complaints, and continuing professional development policies.As a Professional Association, we provide membership benefits including access to the SMTO Block Scheme Insurance Policy through Balens Ltd, an FCA-authorised entity. Our annual conference and AGM, held in Edinburgh, offer professional development opportunities, while our online directory helps the public locate registered therapists. We maintain transparency in operations, uphold ethical standards, and actively engage with regional representatives to address local needs across Scotland.
Services
Membership Services
Professional Insurance
Annual Conference
Therapist Directory
CPD Resources
Standards Verification
Regional Representation
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We enhance public protection by enforcing National Occupational Standards for Massage Therapy.
- Our members adhere to strict ethical and professional conduct policies.
- We provide access to tailored insurance policies through FCA-authorised partners.
- Our annual conference offers CPD opportunities and industry networking.
- We maintain an up-to-date directory to connect the public with verified therapists.
Associations and certifications
- Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
Services
Membership Services
We offer membership to massage therapists committed to maintaining National Occupational Standards. Members gain access to industry resources, networking opportunities, and ethical guidelines. Our membership ensures adherence to strict professional and disciplinary policies.
Professional Insurance
We provide access to the SMTO Block Scheme Insurance Policy through Balens Ltd. This tailored coverage supports members in practicing safely and professionally. Policies are subject to acceptance by our FCA-authorised partners.
Annual Conference
Our annual AGM and conference in Edinburgh feature CPD workshops, trade exhibitions, and networking. The event runs over two days with sessions from 9am to 5pm. It includes opportunities for professional recognition and skill development.
Therapist Directory
Our online directory helps the public locate registered SMTO therapists by postcode or therapy type. The tool ensures users find qualified professionals while preventing misuse for marketing purposes.
CPD Resources
We support ongoing education through CPD magazines, workshops, and policy guidance. Our resources ensure members stay updated on industry standards and best practices. Compliance with CPD policies is mandatory for all members.
Questions
What benefits does SMTO membership offer?
SMTO membership provides access to professional insurance, CPD resources, ethical guidelines, and a public therapist directory. Members also benefit from networking opportunities and industry representation.
How can I find a registered massage therapist?
Use our online directory to search by postcode or therapy type. The tool connects you with SMTO-registered therapists in your area, ensuring qualified and ethical practitioners.
What is the SMTO's role in professional standards?
We collaborate with GCMT and CNHC to maintain National Occupational Standards for Massage Therapy. Members must adhere to our Code of Conduct and disciplinary policies to ensure public protection.
When and where is the annual conference held?
The SMTO Conference and AGM occur annually in late March at Edinburgh Academy Junior School. The 2024 event runs 23rd-24th March from 9am to 5pm.
Does SMTO offer insurance for members?
Yes, we provide access to the SMTO Block Scheme Insurance Policy through Balens Ltd. Coverage details are available to members subject to acceptance by our FCA-authorised partners.