We are a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB), sponsored by the Department of Health (NI) (specifically the Office of Social Services). The Council Board Chair is accountable to the Minister of Health. Being an NDPB means the Social Care Council has operational independence in carrying out its regulatory role, but it operates within a governance and accountability framework set by the NI Government.
We make a difference to the quality of social care services by regulating workforce standards and promoting continuous training and learning. Through this work we support the development of a strong and professional social work and social care workforce providing quality care and the best outcomes for people who use services and their carers.
We are responsible for:
Maintaining a register of Social Workers and Social Care Practitioners in Northern Ireland (over 49,000 registrants)
Setting standards for Social Workers and Social Care Practitioners for their conduct, training and practice
Setting standards for and regulating social work education and training in Northern Ireland
Our Vision and Values
‘To Improve Standards in Social Work and Social Care’. Our values underpin our culture and explain how we work with others.
– We promote Respect.
– We work with Integrity.
– We believe in Partnership.
– We strive for Excellence.


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