Record numbers of social workers renew registration

Social Work England has reported record levels of registration renewal among social workers, with almost 105,000 practitioners retaining their right to practise during the latest three‑month renewal phase. Between 1 September and 30 November, 104,717 social workers successfully renewed their registration, up from 102,888 in 2024. This represents 97.4% of registrants, the same proportion as last year.

The regulator confirmed that 2,506 social workers (2.3%) were removed from the register for failing to complete the renewal requirements, a slight increase on the 2,198 (2.1%) removed in 2024. To remain registered, practitioners must submit the renewal application form, pay the £120 fee (or first instalment via direct debit), and provide two pieces of continuing professional development (CPD), one of which must include peer reflection. Since the renewal period closed, 298 social workers have applied to restore their registration, broadly in line with last year’s figure of 283. However, restoration now costs £180, up from £135 in 2024, following a 33% rise in fees earlier this year. Social Work England said initial assessments of restoration applications may take up to 20 working days, during which time applicants cannot practise. In addition, 1,690 social workers voluntarily left the register during the renewal period, compared with 1,509 in 2024.

As with last year, Social Work England will not be sampling CPD submissions following the renewal round, as it plans to consult in 2026 on revising the CPD process for registration renewal.

Philip Hallam, executive director of regulation, welcomed the high renewal rates, saying they showed “the overwhelming majority of social workers understand and embrace their professional responsibilities.”

He added:

“Registration is the foundation of professional social work practice and maintaining that registration shows a commitment to continued learning, development, and safe practice.” Hallam stressed that removal from the register means practitioners cannot legally practise: “Social workers who did not complete their renewal are no longer able to practise as a social worker or in any role that requires registration. To do so would be an offence under our regulations.”

He also warned against late renewals, noting that two weeks before the deadline only four in ten social workers had completed the process. “The earlier social workers complete all parts of the registration renewal process, the less likely it is they will face removal,” he said. “We would remind all social workers that CPD can be recorded throughout the year using their online account. There is no need to wait for the registration renewal period to open.”

The announcement comes as Social Work England undergoes an independent review, required under the Children and Social Work Act 2017. Led by former director of children’s services Annie Hudson, the review is examining how effectively the regulator is fulfilling its statutory functions, including protecting public safety, maintaining confidence in the profession, and upholding professional standards. A survey of social workers and sector stakeholders has already been conducted, asking whether the renewal process was “simple to complete” and “proportionate to the level of protection and trust it gives the public.”

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