Government announces independent review of Social Work England

The review, which has been commissioned because it is required within this time period under the Children and Social Work Act 2017, will assess the effectiveness and impact of Social Work England’s work to date, focusing on how well it is delivering its statutory objectives to:

• protect, promote and maintain the health, safety and wellbeing of the public;
• promote and maintain public confidence in social workers in England; and
• promote and maintain proper professional standards for social workers in England.

The DfE said the review will also examine the regulator’s governance, accountability, and collaboration with other bodies involved in social care.

It will make recommendations on whether any changes are needed to ensure the regulation of social workers remains efficient, transparent and fit for the future.  It will also assess the delivery of the Secretary of State’s powers on social work as set out in the Act.

Dame Annie Hudson, previously Chair of the Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel and a former Director of Children’s Services, has been appointed to lead the review.

Children and Families Minister Josh MacAlister said: “I am delighted that Dame Annie Hudson has been appointed to lead this important review, given her deep understanding of the social work profession.

“Social workers play a vital role in supporting families, protecting vulnerable people and breaking down barriers to opportunity. 

“The review will help ensure that Social Work England is effective and focused on making life better for those who rely on social work every day.”

Dame Annie Hudson said: “I am honoured to be appointed to lead this important review. Social workers carry out some of the most complex and demanding work in our society, and the systems that regulate and support them must be strong, fair and forward-looking.

“I look forward to hearing from social workers, employers, educators and people with lived experience as we consider how Social Work England can best promote excellence and public confidence in the profession.”

The review will begin in November 2025 and conclude by Spring 2026. The Call for Evidence for the review can be found here.