Social workers in England have been warned to think before they post online, and to follow their employers’ social media policy, in new HCPC guidance published this week.
The guidance, applicable to social workers and members of the other 15 professions regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), encourages professionals to get advice when in doubt about social media posts, but also encourages them to keep using social media platforms.
It lists the benefits of social media in helping professionals develop their skills and knowledge and helping the public understand what they do.
Social media, if used responsibly, could support professionals to raise the profile of the profession and network with others nationally and internationally, the guidance says.
‘Concerns’
Michael Guthrie, HCPC director of policy and standards, said: “The vast majority of registrants who use social media already do so responsibly, in line with our standards, and without any difficulties at all.
“However, we know that registrants sometimes have questions or concerns about using social media because they want to make sure that they always meet our standards.”
The top tips listed by the guidance are:
- Think before you post
- Think about who can see what you share
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
- Do not post information which could identify a service user unless you have their permission
- Do not post inappropriate or offensive material
- If you are employed, follow your employer’s social media policy
- When in doubt, get advice
- Keep on posting.
The guidance says social workers should ensure they communicate appropriately on social media, and be honest and trustworthy. It warns that social media “can blur the boundaries between the personal and the professional”, which social workers should be wary of when communicating with service users.
The regulator developed the guidance following registrant feedback about the need for clarity in this area.
The HCPC will hold a tweetchat about the new guidance on Tuesday 12 September at 6.30pm.
Register now for Community Care Live London for two days of free and essential learning to boost your CPD, sharpen your legal knowledge and improve your practice, on 26-27 September.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole 
Hampshire County Council 
Lincolnshire County Council 
Norfolk County Council 
Northamptonshire Children’s Trust 
South Gloucestershire Council 
Wiltshire Council 
Wokingham Borough Council 
Children and young people with SEND are ‘valued and prioritised’ in Wiltshire, find inspectors 
How specialist refugee teams benefit young people and social workers 
Podcast: returning to social work after becoming a first-time parent 
Podcast: would you work for an inadequate-rated service? 
Family help: one local authority’s experience of the model 
‘We are all one big family’: how one council has built a culture of support 
Workforce Insights – showcasing a selection of the sector’s top recruiters 
Facebook
X
LinkedIn
Instagram
I’ve known some families use each other’s accounts, so I’m not sure how hcpc can uphold such usage online.
People who get into open discussion forums that turn into a rat race should also think twice. I’ve come across some bullies who work in social care.. many use social media and make random comments publicly …
I’ve seen posts in forums by others which are not acceptable. Chin up smile and move on.. don’t get involved my advice.
The answer about families which use each other’s accounts is obvious: ask your relative to create their own account, or explain that they shouldn’t post anything appropriate otherwise your future in the profession might be in jeopardy. Simples!
Maybe HCPC ought give guidance on use of common sense!
..cheered me up Paul. Thanks