We understand that Professional bodies are distinctive. 

Professional bodies are dedicated to the advancement of the knowledge and practice of professions through developing, supporting, regulating and promoting professional standards for technical and ethical competence. Professional bodies are concerned with the public benefit as well as the reputation of professionals. They aim to maintain and develop professionalism, thereby securing high quality professional services for society. There are approximately 400 professional bodies in the UK. Together, they represent 13 million professionals. Three different types of organisation make up the professional body sector and some occupations combine these functions into a single professional body, whilst in others they are clearly differentiated organisations:

• Professional associations
• Regulatory bodies
• Learned societies