Interested in returning to social work?

In partnership with the Department for Education we have developed a package of support to encourage registered and experienced social workers to return to front line social work practice.

Former social workers have a wealth of skills and experience that can add significant value to the profession. In its first year, the Return to Social Work initiative has successfully enabled 42 local authorities to support almost 450 returning social workers back to the profession. As part of the 2011/12 remit agreed by the Department for Education, we will continue to fund more Return to Social Work courses.

If you are a qualified social worker who has left the profession and you are thinking of returning, then why not take advantage of our Return to Social Work course to help you do just that?

We are currently offering support and training through a series of refresher courses covering current social work theory and practice. 

Each course provides advice and practical support in finding a social work position within a children and families setting.

What can I do now?

Re-registration

If your registration with the General Social Care Council (GSCC) has lapsed, then you will need to re-register in order to work as a social worker. Further information about re-registration is available on the GSCC website.

General Social Care Council's codes of practice

These UK-wide codes of practice for social care workers and employers provide a clear guide for all those who work in social care, setting out the standards of practice and conduct workers and their employers should meet. All registrants will be required to comply with the codes as a condition of ongoing registration. To view the codes of practice, go to the GSCC website.

In the meantime, if you are interested in getting involved and would like to register your interest to return, please contact one of the participating local authorities.