Here, SSSC Chief Executive, Maree Allison shares what we have in store for you this week to promote and support social workers and the workforce and to share your stories.
‘First of all, I’d like to thank you for the vital work you do every day. This week is an opportunity for you and us to shine a spotlight on the difference you make to people’s lives. It’s also an opportunity for us to share the resources we’ve developed to promote social work as a career, support you in your career and your SSSC registration.
‘Throughout the week we’ll be sharing stories from social workers in various roles. I found it inspiring to hear about their routes into social work, their different roles since qualifying and how they’ve progressed throughout their career. I’m sure you will too.
On Tuesday, World Social Work Day, Laura Lamb, our Director of Workforce, Education and Standards reflects on the theme for this year ‘Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing' and tells us how the SSSC’s work supports it.
The Newly Qualified Social Worker Supported Year, which became mandatory in October 2024, is already proving to be a huge success. It makes sure newly qualified social workers (NQSW) receive the right levels of support for professional development through their first year of practice. You’ll hear from NQSWs on the benefits they found during this time.
Don’t miss our update about our continuous professional learning (CPL) website. Kristina Robb, SSSC Learning and Development Adviser (Qualifications and Standards) will be talking about the free online learning and development opportunities available to suit your needs as a social worker or student.
‘We have other exciting developments to share with you. We’ve been developing a graduate apprenticeship route to becoming a social worker with Scottish Government, Skills Development Scotland and other partners. Available during academic year 2025-2026, it is designed to enable people to study for a degree while working, gaining that valuable experience.
‘Another resource to look out for is a new anti-racism resource for social workers we’re developing with partners and social workers with lived experience of racism. The resource will promote learning and reflection on anti-racism in social work, and help social workers explore what it means for them at different stages of their careers.
‘And you can catch me again on Thursday when I’m taking part in a discussion with the UK’s four social work regulators talking about our common experiences in social work regulation and using data to drive positive change. You can book your place here.’