The Professional Capabilities Framework developed by the social work reform board and owned by The College of Social Work provides a structure to support the career development of every social worker: from initial social work education, through continuing professional development, towards the role of principal social worker. The framework provides criteria for career progression and opens new career pathways that will allow experienced workers to sustain engagement with the challenges and rewards of practice. Furthermore The PCF applies to all social workers in England (including independent social workers), in all roles and settings and so it is an essential document for all.
Professionalism;
Professionalism is an integral part of social work it is there for essential that as a social worker I remain committed to my professional development by tracking responsibility for my conduct practice and learning regularly ( BASW Code of ethics 2013). I understand that the professional element of the role is key component of what being a social worker is about and intend to safeguard the reputation by making sure my conduct adheres at all times to the standards set out by the HCPC. I have demonstrated these attributes by undergoing a three day shadowing placement in which I was able to get to grips practically with the nature of the role, whilst simultaneously understanding the importance of maintaining a high level of professionalism and due diligence to the code of ethics .From my lecture notes I have been able to understand the role that professional boundaries and behaviours play in social work. I have had the opportunity to see examples first hand through role play scenarios during class and because of this have made a real comprehensive effort to ensure I am up to date and clear with issues surrounding these. Additionally through further reading I have been able to develop the
References: BASW. (2013). Code of Ethics. Available: http://www.basw.co.uk/. Last accessed 5/12/2013. College of social Work . (2013). The Professional Capabilities Framework . Available: http://www.tcsw.org.uk/home/. Last accessed 1/12/13. HCPC. (2013). Standards of conduct, performance and ethics. Available: http://www.hpc-uk.org. Last accessed 11/10/13. Reith T. (2005). Social Work Intervention. Scottish Executive . 6 (4), 12-57.