Recognition of approved programmes
On Monday 2 December 2019, all HCPC approved social work and approved mental health professional (AMHP) programmes will be transferred to Social Work England.
Social Work England will recognise these programmes (and the institutions delivering them) as approved. This means individuals who complete approved social work programmes will continue to be eligible to for registration with Social Work England, in the same way they are currently with the HCPC.
Those completing approved AMHP qualifications will continue to seek approval to practice with relevant local authorities in England.
We will also transfer information to Social Work England about approved programmes that are no longer running. Individuals who hold qualifications from these programmes will still be eligible to apply for registration with Social Work England.
In the lead up to transfer
- Work we've started with you
The HCPC will continue to be responsible for approving and monitoring social work and AMHP programmes through to the transfer date.
If we have started any approval and monitoring processes with you, we will endeavour to complete these.
If we are unable to reach a final outcome, we will pause the assessment and hand over all information relating to it to Social Work England as part of the transfer. Social Work England have agreed they will be able to use their own processes to reach a final outcome with you in most cases.
Practically, this means we will hold approval visits and consider major changes to approved programmes up until Monday 18 November 2019, one month prior to the transfer date.
If we feel that we may be unable to reach a final outcome with you, we will let you know as soon as possible so that you can consider how you would like to proceed.
- Plans for new programmes
It now makes most sense to discuss new programmes with Social Work England. They are ready and able to give you advice and support around their approach to regulation.
Please visit the Social Work England website to find out more about their education approach, including information regarding standards and processes, and how they will engage with you following the transfer.
- Plans for major changes to programmes
From 4 November, please discuss any major changes to programmes with Social Work England. They can give you advice and support around their approach to regulation.
Information for your learners
You should update your learners about the change in regulation prior to the transfer. Learners who are due to complete their studies will need to understand how they go about registering with Social Work England from 2 December onwards.
You may also need to update your learning materials to reflect Social Work England’s standards.
