Fitness to Practise Support Service

Social Work England has announced the launch of a new independent emotional support service for people involved in its fitness to practise process. The service is aimed at improving wellbeing during what can often be a challenging time.

The Fitness to Practise Support Service, delivered by specialist provider Wellbeing Solutions, will offer free, confidential support to social workers, complainants, witnesses and their family members. The service is available via telephone 24/7, 365 days a year. Person-operated live chat is available from 08:00 to 20:00 Monday to Friday. Other helpful resources and tools will be available online via a dedicated portal.

The initiative reflects Social Work England's recognition of the emotional impact that fitness to practise proceedings can have on those involved. People participating in investigations or hearings may experience stress, anxiety and uncertainty, and the new service has been designed to provide a dedicated space for emotional support.

The service operates independently from Social Work England. The service is not involved in decision-making and cannot offer advice or guidance on individual fitness to practise cases or outcomes. Instead, its role is to provide impartial support, helping people to manage the personal impact of being part of fitness to practise proceedings.

The launch marks a significant step in strengthening the support available within the fitness to practise system. By introducing this service, Social Work England hopes to make the process more supportive for all those involved.

Read more about the Fitness to Practise Support Service