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Changes to the regulatory framework for Social Work England

1. One proposal could mean extending fitness to practice substantive orders for up to 10 years {Schedule 2 para 15.1, 15(2) & 15(2a)}. (Substantive orders are a warning, conditions or a suspension imposed by a panel at the final hearing should a case reach this stage).  UNISON does not feel up to 10 years to be proportionate or fair.
 
Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
 
3. The proposed changes mean an Interim Order (risk assessment hearing of the social workers safeness to practise while the investigation is being undertaken) can be considered at any stage even if no new information is presented. UNISON believes this will impact on trust and confidence in the regulator to perform their duties as an Interim Order should be considered at the point of first referral and only reconsidered based on new information.

Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
 
5. Changes to rules 26.5 and 26.7 mean that fitness to practice Interim order decisions are published without allowing for the appeal period. UNISON believes this may unduly impact a Social Worker.

Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
 
7. Do you feel you should be aware of when a fitness to practice referral is made to Social Work England, even if not investigated and closed at triage (the current rules do not mandate SWE to inform the Social Worker) UNISON believes the Social Worker should be made aware of all referrals particularly given the high number of referrals from the public [over 70% of referrals are from the public].
                                                                            
Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
 
9. When SWE initially writes to the social worker asking them to respond to a concern, the social worker is not given the full documentation of the complaint. UNISON believe this prevents the social worker from making an informed decision and relevant submissions [over 70% of referrals are from the public].

Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
 
11. UNISON believe that SWE, as a matter of urgency, needs to gather, compile and publish Equality, Diversity and Inclusion data in order to meet the public sector equality duties.

Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
13. SWE is the largest regulator requiring registrants to cover the cost of medical expenses if an final hearing results in the registrant obtaining a Condition of Practice. Other professions such as nurses and paramedics are not required to pay for this themselves. UNISON feel this makes the profession not equitably comparative.

Do you agree with UNISON’s position?
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