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The Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) – Why the
time is right for review
A message from TCSW Chief Executive Annie Hudson
The last few years have been a time of great change in social work.
Changes in social work practice, in policy and legislation, and the
wider context mean that the landscape has shifted significantly since
the PCF was first introduced in 2010. That is why we are at an
appropriate juncture to evaluate its impact and effectiveness, and
ensure it is fit for the future.
Therefore, the College of Social Work (TCSW) is today announcing
that we will lead a review of the PCF which will involve all of social
work’s key stakeholders. The College is very clear that social work is one profession. As
such, it is imperative that there is one common professional standards framework. This
review of the PCF will make sure that it continues to provide necessary coherence and
clarity across the social work profession in England.
TCSW will be setting up an advisory group in the New Year to support this review, and to
help make sure that the PCF properly reflects and adapts to:
 Changing practice needs – It is now 4 years since the PCF framework was
launched and it is important that the PCF properly reflects contemporary practice
needs.

Government changes – It is important that the PCF coheres with recent
developments such as the Knowledge and Skills statement for children and family
social work recently published by the Department of Education, and the (draft) KSS
for social work with adults. We must also take account of other national
developments including those relating to Assessed and Supported Year of
Employment (ASYE); accreditation for children and families social workers; and
Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
 TCSW endorsement of social work education and training – the TCSW
endorsement scheme is nearing the end of its first cycle. The scheme has
successfully promoted high standards in education and training and will continue to
evolve.
We know that the PCF has become very well embedded across practice, social work
education and employment, helping to define the capabilities that should be commonly
demonstrated across the social work profession. The PCF now provides the bedrock for
learning and assessment in social work education, and is increasingly the cornerstone of
excellent practice and workforce development.
The review will ensure the profession continues to evolve, is forward thinking, offers
practitioners, managers and employers a single professional standards framework, and
which – most critically - encourages excellent social work practice.
A diverse and representative advisory board will be established to take a wide ranging and
objective look at the PCF in light of current needs. It will report its recommendations in early
summer 2015. Dr Ash Chand, Head of Professional Practice here at TCSW will be leading
the review.
Finally it is very important to emphasise that there will a range of opportunities for members
and other key stakeholders to contribute ideas and views to the review. We will providing
more information about this and the scope of the review early in 2015.
Annie Hudson
Chief Executive