Professional Practice Standards for Residential Child Care Workers

In 2008 CWDC commissioned Action for Children to draft Standards for Residential Child Care that would set out the key behaviours, expertise and skills that experienced residential child care workers require to progress professionally. In 2009 key stakeholders were consulted on the draft Standards at nine regional events and at a range of residential settings. Based on stakeholder's feedback the Professional Practice Standards for Residential Child Care have been produced.

Why do we need Professional Practice Standards for Residential Child Care Workers?

Since January 2005 there has been a minimum level 3 entry requirement for those entering into a residential care career. Intelligence from key stakeholders has indicated that there is a need for a more highly skilled residential care workforce and that residential child care workers would benefit from access to a range of continuing professional development opportunities above the current minimum level 3.

The Professional Practice Standards for Residential Child Care set out the key skills and knowledge required for experienced practitioners caring for children and young people in group settings.

Who are the standards for?

The Professional Practice Standards for Residential Child Care are for those working in residential child care. They set out core behaviours for all employees that can be used as part of continuing professional development. There are also elements that support the development of employees who wish to develop to a higher level.  

This would include experienced or senior staff, and managers of residential child care settings.

What next?

CWDC is currently inviting residential child care settings to apply to participate in a 12 month, small scale test and trial of the Standards. The test and trial will tell us whether the Standards are fit for purpose to be used effectively to support residential child care workers' continuing professional development.

Successful settings will be provided with a range of support resources from CWDC as well as £1,500 to cover additional work and travel costs. The deadline for submitting tenders is 30 April and further details can be found at http://www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/tenders

To support this CWDC is also seeking bids from organisations that are able to develop practice guidance for the Standards and organisations that can evaluate the test and trial.