HCPC launches video as concerns grow over slow start to re-registration process
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has followed up its warning that social workers in England who do not re-register before 30 November will be unable to practise using the title ‘social worker’ by issuing a video outlining how to renew swiftly.
The video features an interview with HCPC chief executive Marc Seale, outlining how to use the online renewals system, the costs involved, the requirements and why meeting the cut off point is important.
The video follows HCPC’s revelation last month that, as of 18 September, just 10% of social work registrants had renewed their registration since the window opened.
The HCPC took over regulation from the General Social Care Council on 1 August and sent online activation and authentication codes to all 88,063 social workers in England at the end of that month. Registrants have to pay the £76 annual fee by the deadline, either by setting up a direct debit for £38 every six months or a single two year payment of £152.
Following the slow start to re-registration, the HCPC cautioned social workers about the risks of not renewing. A spokesperson said: “The ramifications of not renewing before the deadline of 30 November are costly and time consuming. You will no longer be able to work in your job as a ‘social worker’, which means your employer may be forced to alter your job title and function, with possible implications on your salary. For example, until you are readmitted to the Register, you may have to work as an ‘assistant social worker’.”
The HCPC said late readmission “may incur an additional fee of £191”, though this would include the first year’s registration.