Further Information Are you a qualified social worker looking to return to practice after a career break?
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is proud to offer a Return to Social Work Practice programme designed to support you in re-registering with Social Work England (SWE) and rejoining the profession with confidence.
This programme provides a structured and supportive route back into practice, helping you meet the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements for restoration. You’ll be offered supervised practice under the guidance of experienced registered professionals, allowing you to refresh your skills and knowledge in a nurturing environment. There is no expectation to carry a caseload during this period.
What supervised practice involves
You’ll have the opportunity to shadow experienced social workers and engage in a range of activities, which may include:
1. Supporting children, young people and families with information and guidance
2. Observing assessments and care planning
3. Applying legislation in practice
4. Liaising with partner agencies and signposting
5. Attending team meetings, multi-agency forums and contributing to case records
6. Participating in training and development sessions
7. Engaging in other relevant activities within the service
Our commitment to your development
We want your return to social work to be a positive and empowering experience. You’ll be welcomed as part of the team and supported throughout your journey. Our offer includes:
8. A full induction and access to mandatory training
9. A blend of e-learning, virtual and in-person training opportunities
10. A dedicated Practice Educator to guide and support you
11. Weekly supervision and reflective sessions with a registered social worker
CPD requirements for re-registration
The amount of CPD you need depends on how long you’ve been out of practice:
12. 2–5 years: At least 30 days of updating your skills and knowledge
13. More than 5 years: At least 60 days of updating your skills and knowledge??
(Social Work England defines a day as 7 hours of activity). For full guidance, please visit the Social Work England website:
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible, you must:
14. Have previously been registered with SWE or the HCPC
15. Not have been removed from the register due to a listed offence
16. Not be subject to a removal order within the last 5 years
17. Not have made an unsuccessful restoration application in the last 12 months (if over 5 years since removal)
18. Not have any undisclosed convictions or cautions relevant to practice
How to apply
Please submit your CV and cover letter via North East Jobs. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Once you’ve successfully completed the programme, you’ll be eligible to apply for social work roles within Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.
What happens next?
Your application will be reviewed by the Principal Social Worker, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to an informal interview. You’ll be asked to bring:
19. Proof of address
20. Qualification certificates
21. Details of previous registration
The interview will explore:
22. Your previous experience and any relevant activity during your break
23. The type of role you’re interested in returning to
24. Preferred working patterns
25. Learning and development needs
26. Your motivation for returning to practice
27. Confirmation of any previous restrictions on practice
If successful, we’ll carry out the necessary checks including:
28. Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List
29. References
30. A voluntary agreement outlining your participation in the unpaid Return to Practice programme, in line with our Volunteer Policy
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