Experienced Social Worker

To practice in accordance with and uphold the Standards of Professional Practice for social workers as defined by Social Work England, which includes the code of ethics and the continuing professional development requirements in order to maintain registration as a social worker to be able to work in England.

To practice in accordance with the BASW Professional Capabilities Framework for Social Workers (the national occupational standards for the profession) at the level of Experienced Social Worker. Practitioners working in line with the Experienced Social Worker level of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) are more autonomous in their role than at lower levels of the PCF.

They are expected to demonstrate expert and effective practice in complex situations, assessing and managing higher levels of risk, striking a balance between support and control, liaising with a wide range of professionals, including more senior levels.

They manage complex caseloads, and offer expert opinion within the organisation and to others. They chair a range of meetings, offer expert support to case conferences, and produce high quality assessments and reports for a range of functions.

They model good practice, setting expectations for others. They start to take responsibility and be accountable for the practice of others, mentoring newly qualified social workers, and supervising the work of junior staff.

They undertake capacity-building with individuals, families, communities, user groups and voluntary organisations, and contribute their views on service provision to commissioners.