Currently accreditation for the coaching industry is done on a voluntary basis. Many areas of the world, including the UK are looking to move to mandatory accreditation. The IIC (International Institute of Coaching) is one of the leading overseeing organisations for coaching. It has existed for over 10 years and was formerly known as the ECI (European Coaching Institute). The IIC not only operates to raise the standard of coaching and coaches, but also approves and accredits training courses in coaching. Accreditation for coaches takes the form of – significant evidence of professional development, proof of extensive paid coaching, a live assessment of the coaching skills of the coach by an IIC member, a range of testimonials and a final interview. Written by Tony Brooks our accredited coach with the IIC