Social Work England has been ordered to produce a comprehensive, end‑to‑end improvement plan for its fitness to practise function within six months, following an independent review that identified “serious and persistent weaknesses” undermining public protection.
Dame Annie Hudson’s review, commissioned in November 2025, found that while the regulator has matured in its first six years, its fitness to practise processes are not operating effectively. The report highlighted extensive and systemic delays—some cases taking more than eight years to conclude—alongside poor communication with referrers, registrants and stakeholders, and concerning differential outcomes across the workforce.
Hudson warned that these failings weaken public protection and erode trust in the regulatory system. She also criticised the clarity and transparency of fitness to practise communications and raised concerns about structural inequalities in outcomes.
Ministers accepted the review’s central conclusion that urgent and sustained action is required to improve fitness to practise performance. The Government said confidence in this core public protection function must be restored, alongside clearer regulatory remit, stronger governance and better use of data.
The review requires Social Work England to deliver a detailed improvement plan with milestones, performance measures and independent scrutiny. Other recommendations include a refreshed communications strategy, reform of CPD requirements, strengthened education standards and improved data governance.
Social Work England accepted the findings, noting that some actions can begin immediately while others will require consultation, funding decisions or legislative change. The regulator said it would maintain a “relentless focus” on its primary objective of protecting the public.
Disclaimer: The accuracy and information of news stories published on this website is accurate on the date of publishing. We endeavour to update stories if information change. You can contact us with change and update requests. Where possible, we will link to sources. Content on this website is for guidance purposes only. We cannot accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.
Restoration Courses
Courses suitable for any health and social care practitioner who is considering making an application for restoration back onto the register.
Insight & Remediation
Courses that are suitable for any healthcare practitioner who is facing an investigation or hearing at work or before their regulatory body.
Probity, Ethics & Professionalism
Courses designed for those facing a complaint involving in part or in whole honesty, integrity and /or professionalism.
Recent Comments