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31 Mar 2022

Your learning

New report on NQSWs experiences of practice during COVID-19

We’ve published a new research report on newly qualified social workers’ (NQSWs) experiences of practice during the COVID-19 pandemic in Scotland. 

The NQSWs in Scotland: Experiences of practice during COVID-19 report will be of particular interest to NQSWs, employer organisations and strategic leaders. It will help them to develop a shared understanding of the impact of COVID-19 and to consider the future support required. 

Significant impact 

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on NQSWs’ experiences of practice. However, the report makes clear that experiences are mixed and depend on individual circumstances and differing approaches to early career support, learning and development across employers.  

The report focuses on: 

  • education 
  • induction and early support 
  • ways of working 
  • in-person work with people who use services 
  • support for NQSWs 
  • professional confidence and competence 
  • professional learning and development. 

Research study 

The new report links to the ongoing five-year longitudinal research study we commissioned into the experiences of NQSWs. It draws on findings from a review of the existing literature, 124 responses to a national NQSW online survey and 12 follow up in-depth interviews. Data was collected between November 2020 and February 2021, a time when participants experienced a second national lockdown.    

This report will feed into the overall findings of the five-year longitudinal research study and help influence the ongoing development of the NQSW Supported Year. 

Find out more on the NQSW website

Read the NQSWs in Scotland: Experiences of practice during COVID-19 report.

Contact information

Sandra Wilson
Communications Officer
Scottish Social Services Council
communications@sssc.uk.com