<p>Welcome to the <strong>FootWorX Podcast</strong> 👣 — the show where we explore the real issues shaping the future of <strong>private podiatry in the UK</strong>.</p><p>In this episode, Damian Murray sits down with <strong>Erica Nicholls</strong>, Chair of the <strong>Royal College of Podiatry Southwest Regional Branch</strong>, to discuss a topic that is shaking the foundations of private practice:</p><p>⚠️ <strong>Is the traditional 50/50 self-employed associate model still legally viable in 2026?</strong></p><p>Following a recent <strong>Royal College of Podiatry webinar on HMRC, IR35, and employment status</strong>, many clinic owners and associates are asking serious questions about the way podiatry businesses are structured.</p><p>Together we unpack:</p><p>✅ What <strong>IR35 and HMRC employment status rules</strong> really mean for podiatry clinics ✅ Why the <strong>CEST tool</strong> could classify most associates as employees ✅ The controversial <strong>“right of substitution” loophole</strong> ✅ Risks for clinic owners and associates if HMRC investigates ✅ The pros and cons of the <strong>associate model vs employed clinicians</strong> ✅ Why the <strong>future of podiatry may depend on modern employment models</strong> ✅ How progressive clinics are building <strong>teams, culture, and better patient care</strong></p><p>This is an honest, thought-provoking discussion about <strong>where private podiatry is heading</strong> — and why adapting to change could unlock a stronger future for the profession.</p><p>If you’re a <strong>podiatrist, clinic owner, associate, new graduate, or healthcare entrepreneur</strong>, this episode is essential listening.</p><p>⏱ <strong>Topics Covered</strong></p><p> Introduction </p><p> Erica’s background and work with the Royal College </p><p>HMRC CEST tool explained </p><p> Why most associates may actually be employees 18:30 – The right of substitution explained </p><p>Why the associate model became dominant </p><p>Pros and cons for clinic owners and associates </p><p>The risks of HMRC investigations </p><p>Why the profession may need to evolve </p><p>Building modern podiatry businesses </p><p>The future of private podiatry in the UK</p><p><br></p><p>🎧 <strong>About the FootWorX Podcast</strong></p><p>The FootWorX Podcast explores the <strong>clinical, business and professional challenges shaping podiatry today</strong>. We speak with leaders in the profession about <strong>practice growth, modern healthcare, and the future of private practice</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>📢 <strong>Connect with the Royal College of Podiatry – Southwest Regional Branch</strong></p><p>Follow their events and CPD updates: 📘 Facebook: <em>Royal College of Podiatry – Southwest Regional Branch &gt;&gt;</em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560986331340"><em>https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560986331340</em></a></p><p><em>Email: [email protected]</em></p><p><br></p><p>👍 <strong>If you enjoyed this episode</strong></p><p>✔️ Like the video ✔️ Subscribe to the channel ✔️ Share with a colleague in podiatry</p><p>Your support helps us continue conversations that move the profession forward 👣</p><p><br>💬 <strong>Question for the community:</strong> Do you think the <strong>associate model in podiatry will survive the next decade?</strong> Let us know in the comments.</p>