About ukapp

The professional association dedicated to the piercing industry in the uK

UKAPP is a non-profit, voluntary organisation dedicated to spreading knowledge of safe piercing practices and up to date education for both industry professionals and the public. We offer piercers the chance to become a member by upholding the highest standards in their working environments. We also aim to create a peer review network for piercers and protect the piercing industry as a whole by giving it a voice.

Active Members

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Our history

How UKAPP Originated

The UKAPP was born out of the UK Piercer Meet Up Facebook group, which was founded by Nicole Holmes, the organisation’s founding president. The UKPMU provided a platform for piercers to discuss various industry issues—from everyday topics such as insurance and piercing techniques to larger matters that impacted the entire industry. One of these significant issues arose when the UK government introduced legislation that classified female genital piercings under female genital mutilation (FGM).

In March 2015, a small group of piercers came together in Newcastle for an informal meet-up to address the challenges facing the piercing community. They realised that to protect the industry, as well as piercers’ rights and the freedom of individuals to choose piercings, an official organisation was necessary to advocate for the profession. Thus, the UKAPP was formed, inspired by the work of the Association of Professional Piercers in the United States.

The UKAPP has since become a vital organisation with the following key objectives:

Provide a national professional association dedicated to the piercing industry.
By setting high standards and providing education, the UKAPP empowers the industry to govern itself with integrity and professionalism.
The UKAPP fosters community by creating opportunities for piercers to meet, exchange ideas, and build supportive networks.
The organisation provides guidance to piercers and the public on navigating regulations and offers assistance in drafting appropriate legislation.
From business management to piercing techniques and health education, UKAPP’s annual conferences and resources aim to elevate industry standards.
UKAPP works with health inspectors, jewellery specialists, and other professionals to ensure the industry maintains high safety and quality standards.
Provide educational brochures and resources.

About ukapp

The professional association dedicated to the piercing industry in the uK

Our history

How UKAPP Originated

The UKAPP has since become a vital organisation with the following key objectives:

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