Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF)

Why we do what we do as social workers, our values and ethics, and how we approach our work

What we do-the specific skills, knowledge, interventions and critical analytic abilities we develop to act and do social work

How we make a difference. Our ability to bring about change through our practice, through our leadership, through understanding our context and through our overall professionalism

Apply social work ethical principles and value to guide professional practices.

Recognise diversity and apply anti-discriminatory, anti-racist and anti-oppressive principles in practice.

Advance human rights and promote social justice and economic wellbeing.

Develop and apply relevant knowledge from social work practice and research, social sciences, law, other professional and relevant fields and from the experience of people who use services.

Apply critical reflection and analysis to inform and provide a rationale for professional decision-making.

Use judgement, knowledge and authority to intervene with individuals, families and communities to promote independence, provide support, prevent harm and enable progress.

Engage with, inform and adapt to changing organisational contexts, and the social and policy environments that shape practice. Operate effectively within and contribute to the development of organisations and services, including multi-agency and interprofessional settings.

Promote the profession and good social work practice. Take responsibility for the professional learning and development of others. Develop personal influence and be part of the collective leadership and impact of the profession.

Identify and behave as a professional social worker, committed to professional development.