College calls for Ofsted review as part of pre-election wish-list

The College of Social Work has called on the next government to review Ofsted’s inspection regime to ensure it incorporates social work expertise.

‘Manifesto’

The demand is part of  a five-point wish-list for the next government ahead of May’s election, published today.

The professional body’s “manifesto”  also says  social workers should lead multi-disciplinary teams in integrated adult’s services and calls for increased financial investment in social care as well as a coherent framework for post-qualifying continuous professional development, similar to that  used in medicine and nursing.

The wish-list  will be announced at the  College of Social Work’s annual conference today as part of its “real social work” campaign which also sets out the College’s own priorities for the coming year. These include  sharing best  practice and acting as a strong voice for the profession in the media.

‘Sustainable support’

College chair Jo Cleary said the campaign was an opportunity to call for  sustainable support for a challenged profession.

She said: “We need to see a shift towards an environment that genuinely values social workers: where their unique skills and expertise are appreciated, and where they have the backing, the resources and the public confidence to provide the best possible outcomes for those they support.”