Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSW)

NQSW framework in adult services

Skills for Care in partnership with the Department of Health and stakeholder organisations have identified the development needs of newly qualified social workers in adult services and developed a framework for their support in the first year in practice. This is the current framework but it will be replaced by the Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) in September 2012.

What is the framework?

The framework recognises that Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSW) need a range of support at different stages of their careers.

They need:

• support to build on the expertise and knowledge they have developed on qualifying programmes and how to apply this to a practice setting as a qualified worker.
• good quality induction to the profession and to their organisation.
• access to the correct type and level of quality supervision.
• a structured process of continued professional development which supports them to develop their career beyond the first year in practice and to meet registration and post registration training and learning requirements.

It also recognises that managers need support so that they can provide the most appropriate environment possible for NQSWs and, in particular, meet their supervision and ongoing development needs.

Why is this important to you?

• Good quality support to NQSW improves confidence and readiness to practice.
• Access to a structured induction process improves worker understanding of their role.
• Appropriate supervision supports effective, safe practice.
• Good quality professional development opportunities support improved recruitment and retention of workers.

The framework is made up of a range of user-friendly tools and resources which are based on best practice to support NQSWs and their managers. It includes a resource pack and facilitator development programme.