Social Work England registration and renewal process 2022: updated BASW England statement

BASW and the Social Workers Union (SWU) have been contacted by a number of members and non-members raising concerns about this year’s renewal process.

Updated statement 8th December 2022  (First published 6th December 2022)

BASW and the Social Workers Union (SWU) have been contacted by a number of members and non-members raising concerns about this year’s renewal process.  This includes social workers who claim they have completed the full application process, but due to a system error their renewal application has not been successful.  Over 3700 registrants did not complete the renewal process. We have advised people to contact Social Work England directly to discuss their concerns and complaints. 

BASW will also be exploring some important process, cost and technical issues with the regulator.

  • First, whether it is appropriate and logical for the Social Work England online system to facilitate payment of the re-registration fee (£90 non-refundable) before completion of the required Application and the CPD upload stages. In most online transactions (e.g. purchases, fee payments) one must complete all prior steps before paying.  This protects the person making payment and ensures the whole process is completed at the payment point. The regulator’s approach is anomalous.
  • Second, particularly in the current cost of living and inflation crisis, whether registrants who have tried to renew and have encountered an online problem or made an error should be charged the additional standard £135.00 restoration to the register fee.
  • Third, whether the regulator can provide some further confirmatory evidence there were no technical errors in their system, particularly on the last days of renewal.

We are aware there is a significant number of vacancies across children’s and adults social work services.  More than ever, we need to sustain and value our workforce, not add to their existing pressures and demands.  We sincerely hope the regulator will deal compassionately with individual registrants seeking restoration to the register as a matter of priority.

BASW Members can contact the BASW Advice and Representation Service if they are having employment related issues as a consequence of missing the registration deadline.

All social workers are reminded that it is illegal to practise in England using the protected title of social worker unless you are registered with the Social Work England.

Further information can be found here.

Social workers have a professional responsibility to maintain professional standards, including CPD and registration.