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If you are a social worker in England, you need to renew your registration with Social Work England every year to continue practising.

The renewal period runs from 1 September to 30 November, and you must complete the process online before the deadline. But what does the renewal process entail, and how can you prepare for it?

Philippa Geddes, the Regional Engagement Lead for South West England at Social Work England (SWE), hosted a session for Reed's qualified social workers division on the re-registration process.

During the session, Philippa explained the steps and requirements for social workers to renew their registration with SWE, and answered questions from participants. She also shared some useful resources and guidance designed to help social workers maintain their professional standards and record their continuing professional development (CPD).

Watch the webinar below:

Here are some of the key points from the session.

Why renew your registration?

Renewing your registration is not only a legal requirement, but a way to demonstrate your commitment to the professional standards of social work. In renewing your registration, you show that you have maintained and updated your skills and knowledge, that you have engaged in CPD, and are fit to practise safely and effectively.

Renewing your registration also helps you stay connected with the social work community and access the resources and support that Social Work England provides.

How to renew your registration?

To renew your registration, simply log in to your online account on the Social Work England website and follow these steps:

  • Check and update your personal and employment details.

  • Confirm that you have read and understood the professional standards.

  • Upload at least two pieces of CPD that reflects on the professional standards, with at least one piece of CPD that contains peer reflection.

  • Declare that you are fit to practise and have no health or character issues that may affect your ability to practise.

  • Pay the annual registration fee of £90 (this can be paid in two instalments of £45).

To learn more, or to make sure you remain professional and compliant when re-registering, you can download the presentation notes here.

More about Philippa Geddes, Regional Engagement Lead (South West), Social Work England

Philippa has lived and worked in Devon for the majority of her social work career, having started out as a newly-qualified social worker for Birmingham City Council. She is passionate about social work and has over 20 years’ experience working in statutory children and family social work.

Philippa graduated from Warwick University with a MA/Diploma in Social Work in 1999. She has worked as a Children and Family Social Worker, Independent Reviewing Officer and Child Protection Chair, LSCB Board Manager, and was a Team Manager within a local authority's children and family team before joining Social Work England in August 2019.

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