The Department for Education has called for non-practising social workers to return to the profession temporarily to ease pressures caused by Covid-19.

 Community Care reported Children’s Minister Will Quince urged non-employed practitioners temporarily registered with Social Work England to contact their council’s children’s services department or sign up with a local agency.

“Many local workforces are facing pressure due to Covid-19,” he posted on social media just before Christmas.

“We need those who can to consider stepping forward to support them, and most importantly, our vulnerable families.”

Some 6,449 practitioners are temporarily registered with Social Work England, which allows those who have not practised for less than two years to return to frontline practice without having to train or re-register, but this is set to be closed.

“Social workers with temporary registration status can apply for roles with local authorities, health trusts and other employers in England, helping to protect the public amidst staff shortages,” the regulator said in a blog.

“If you can support on a temporary basis, we would encourage you to contact your local authority or sign up with a local agency.

“We would like to thank all social workers who have indicated that they want to return to practise, as well as all those currently practising in extremely challenging circumstances.”

 

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