On Monday 2 December, Social Work England (SWE) takes over from the Health and Care Professions Council as the new specialist regulator for social work – a move that is welcomed by UNISON.
Social workers support millions of people across the country every day and SWE will regulate the social work profession so that people receive the best possible support whenever they need it.
The body is committed to raising standards through collaboration with everyone who has an interest in social work. It will also seek to promote confidence in the sector.
SWE will contact social workers from Monday to introduce itself. Social workers will also be provided with details on how to set up an online account with the regulator.
Lots of important information will be available on the SWE website, such as that linked to the new professional standards and guidance on continuing professional development.
UNISON welcomes the new regulator and has been working with it in the lead up to its establishment, contributing to its development.
SWE and social workers have high expectations of each other and, while UNISON has a few concerns to iron out, the union is very hopeful and will work collaboratively to help the new regulator bed in.
You can find out more at www.socialworkengland.org.uk.
Remember that UNISON provides specialist representation if your practice is ever called into question by Social Work England. However, you can only access this if we know about it.
If an email or letter ever lands in your inbox or through your letter box, UNISON should be your first call. We can then put specialist help in place to support you throughout any fitness-to-practice process by your regulator.
