The government has published a new set of standards for senior social workers.
In a newly published consultation paper entitled Knowledge and skills for practice leaders and practice supervisors in child and family social work, the Department for Education has formally defined for the first time the skills and knowledge required of senior social workers working with children in need and their families.
Amongst other requirements, senior social workers are expected to be able to “promote and govern excellent practice”, promote the development of their team members, use their authority effectively, and engage in “emotionally intelligent practice supervision”. They need to “create a context for” good practice and promote the development of their team members.
The standards were announced by Isabelle Trowler, the Chief Social Worker for Children and Families –a government appointed role responsible for providing advice to ministers and driving reform within the sector.
She said:
“From my own time as a social worker, from a practitioner to senior leader, I know that effective front line social work requires a wealth of skills and a breadth of knowledge at each and every level – from the front-line right up to the most senior social work leaders.”
She added:
“I am determined to ensure that we earn the public’s respect for and confidence in our profession, particularly from the children, young people and families with whom we work.”
The standards will form part of a planned new national assessment and accreditation system for social workers.
The consultation will run until September 1.
Read the consultation here.
