Why obtain tScheme approval?

tScheme approval is a sign that your trust scheme meets exacting standards, and can be relied upon by users and operators

Clearly-recognised assurance

tScheme assesses Trust Service Providers (TSPs) against strict criteria. The assessment is carried out independently by UKAS-recognised assessors – only TSPs that meet the requirements can carry the tScheme trust mark. The tScheme trust mark indicates that:

• • The service has been thoroughly and independently evaluated against rigorous criteria
  • The service provider has agreed to keep to these criteria
  • The service provider subscribes to the tScheme Code of Conduct
  • The service provider will act promptly and fairly to remedy any faults
  • The service provider accepts annual renewal and audit obligations

Transparency and reliability

Organisations who assert the tScheme Mark must ensure continuity of good practice. Every approval is reviewed and should be renewed periodically. tScheme can revoke approval if the conditions of approval are no longer met.

Openness and cooperation

tScheme is outward-looking and pro-active. As far as possible, we avoid duplicating the work of other organisations. Instead, we adopt existing standards and codes of conduct where they are credible and effective.

Use of tScheme approvals is growing with more and more schemes adopting independent assessment. We are also attracting interest from outside the UK, either in cooperating to develop similar schemes, or through applications for approval under the UK scheme