Public protection first
Prioritise the safety and dignity of congregants, students, advice-seekers, children and vulnerable adults.
About CMPS
About the proposed Council
CMPS is developing an independent, Muslim-led professional standards framework for public-facing Muslim religious personnel in the UK.
The case for CMPS
Purpose and scope
The proposed framework would define professional roles, assess relevant competence and set standards of conduct for public-facing religious practice. Institutions should have a reliable way to assess those entrusted with teaching, leadership and pastoral care.
CMPS proposes a voluntary professional framework. It has not been established as a statutory regulator, and registration with CMPS would not create a legal licence to practise. Its structures, legal status and operational rules remain subject to development and consultation.
Guiding principles
Principles for development
Competence within scope
Recognise the specific work a practitioner is qualified to undertake, rather than a universal claim of religious authority.
Fairness and independence
Separate investigation, decision-making and appeals, with safeguards against conflicts of interest.
Scholarly pluralism
Respect the breadth of Muslim traditions without prescribing a single creed, school or curriculum.
Transparency
Publish clear criteria and explain what any future registration does, and does not, signify.
Proportionality
Match standards, assessments and oversight to the responsibilities of each role.
Governance in development
Proposed governance and oversight
The proposed structure includes a governing council, a professional standards function, and a distinct ethics and safeguarding function. Independent investigation, adjudication, appeals and external review would need to be established before formal conduct processes begin.
Board membership, conflicts policies, legal structure and oversight arrangements have not yet been finalised. These details will be published when established.
See the development stages