When someone applies for registration with the GSCC we have to make sure we are satisfied that they are physically and mentally fit to perform the duties of a social worker. In the past we have asked applicants to declare any health conditions that might impair the safety of their practice, we then investigated certain kinds of health declarations. We reviewed this approach and found that 99 per cent of investigations concluded the applicant was physically and mentally suitable for registration. As a regulator we must work in a way that is proportionate, focuses on risks and is compliant with the Equality Act 2010. So as a result of this review we have changed our approach.
From now on we will still ask applicants to declare any relevant health conditions, however instead of then investigating certain conditions we now seek two assurances from those applicants: that they recognise how and when their health condition might impair their ability to perform their duties, and that they only practice social work if they are physically and mentally capable of performing safely and effectively. This change in policy recognises that social workers are professionals and must take full responsibility for practising safely, including adjusting or stopping their practice when ill health impairs their ability. Employers also have a key role in working with social workers to ensure that they are well enough to work safely and effectively whilst making any reasonable adjustments for social workers with a disability.
We will continue to investigate an applicant’s health where there is evidence that ill health caused or contributed to conduct that may call into question an applicant or registrants suitability for registration. We will also investigate any declarations made by social workers in relation to substance misuse as we consider that this is an issue which is more likely to impact on a social worker's ability to practice safely and effectively. For further information please visit our website.
We do not ask people to declare past substance addictions. Our application guidance tells applicants “You must tell us about any addictions or physical or mental health conditions or impairments you have that might prevent you from performing the work of a social worker safely and effectively in the field in which you wish to practise.” (source p.15 http://www.gscc.org.uk/cmsFiles/Registration/Apply%20for%20registration/Social%20Worker/UKQ_guidance_notes_2011_FINAL.pdf )
Current substance misuse can impact on a person’s ability to practice safely and therefore it is appropriate and reasonable for the GSCC to investigate such matters. We consider it is important to undertake such investigations to protect the public but do not consider this to be disproportionate nor discriminatory.
GSCC
12 Dec 2011
I was very pleased to read about the changes that GSCC have introduced for those who declare that they have a health condition. rnrnI declared that I had bipolar affective disorder when I first registered in 2005. Reports were requested from my GP and Psychiatrist and I was asked to provide a statement regarding my fitness to practice in which I discussed my insight. These were considered by a panel who deemed that I could be registered with conditions. The whole process was incredibly stressful and I was definitely left with the feeling that I had been discriminated against. It made me question whether I should have been so honest? Since then I have not held the GSCC in the highest of regard. Hence I am pleased to read that they do review their procedures and change them when necessary.
Carol McAteer
08 Dec 2011
In relation to the question of substance misuse is there any evidence that past substance misuse is more likely to impact on a social workers ability to practice safely and effectively than any other form of illness? The GSCC states it will continue to investigate declarations of substance misuse, is this intended to include any substance misuse however long ago as surely this cannot be proportionate if for example the substance misuse was 10 or more years ago. It may be reasonable to investigate substance misuse occuring in the last five years but any investigation of historic substance misuse can only be seen as oppressive and discriminatory.
Maureen
07 Dec 2011
