Return To Social Work Practice

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:

• Supporting children, young people and families with information and guidance
• Observing assessments and care planning
• Applying legislation in practice
• Liaising with partner agencies and signposting
• Attending team meetings, multi‑agency forums and contributing to case records
• Participating in training and development sessions
• 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:

• A full induction and access to mandatory training
• A blend of e‑learning, virtual and in‑person training opportunities
• A dedicated Practice Educator to guide and support you
• 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:

• 2–5 years: At least 30 days of updating your skills and knowledge
• 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: https://www.socialworkengland.org.uk/

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible, you must:

• Have previously been registered with SWE or the HCPC
• Not have been removed from the register due to a listed offence
• Not be subject to a removal order within the last 5 years
• Not have made an unsuccessful restoration application in the last 12 months (if over 5 years since removal)
• 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:

• Proof of address
• Qualification certificates
• Details of previous registration

The interview will explore:

• Your previous experience and any relevant activity during your break
• The type of role you’re interested in returning to
• Preferred working patterns
• Learning and development needs
• Your motivation for returning to practice
• Confirmation of any previous restrictions on practice

If successful, we’ll carry out the necessary checks including:

• Enhanced DBS with Child Barred List
• References
• A voluntary agreement outlining your participation in the unpaid Return to Practice programme, in line with our Volunteer Policy