What we do and how we work
Our long term objectives help us deliver our aim and vision. They guide our decisions and how we use our resources. They also ensure our work aligns with the strategy of the National Social Work Agency (NSWA).
Strategic objectives
Our strategic objectives are to:
- provide national leadership and strategic direction for the social work profession by establishing and leading the NSWA and, in collaboration with social work leaders, to advocate and champion the profession
- lead coordinated national responses and approaches to social work to protect people and uphold human rights, especially where unified action is essential
- strengthen the quality, consistency and accessibility of social work education and continuous professional learning through strategic leadership and oversight
- ensure a coordinated national approach to workforce planning by working in partnership to provide an overview of national needs across the social work sector for long-term sustainability across the sector
- provide oversight of national improvement priorities and approaches, and leading targeted support that drives sustainable, high-quality practice across Scotland
- foster a positive, inclusive, and values-driven organisational culture that prioritises employee wellbeing, develops leadership at all levels, and supports a resilient, empowered workforce
Partnership approach with the sector
Our partnership approach means we hear from a broad range of leaders and experts. From frontline social workers and people with lived experience.
Scottish Social Work Partnership
We work with COSLA and Social Work Scotland to lead the Scottish Social Work Partnership (SSWP).
We work together to ensure a skilled, supported and sustainable social work workforce in Scotland. Scottish Ministers and COSLA leaders will jointly agree a national strategic plan for social work that will guide the work of the SSWP.
We’ll report progress to ministers, COSLA leaders and sector partners. This will form part of the National Chief Social Work Adviser’s annual report on the state of social work in Scotland.
Social work sector partners
We work with different organisations to shape national planning and create improvements across the social work sector. This includes:
- membership organisations
- trade unions
- inspection and regulatory bodies
- improvement agencies
- higher education providers
Social Work Professional Support Service
We fund the Social Work Professional Support Service to offer free peer-led coaching support service. This is for both social workers and social work students.
Social Work Policy Panel
We work with Scottish Association of Social Work and Social Work Scotland to fund the Social Work Policy Panel. It bridges the gap between frontline social workers and the organisations that develop and implement policy.
People with lived experience
We actively seek views from people with lived experience. We aim to engage with national support networks to ensure diverse perspectives.
Open and transparent communication
We’re committed to clarity and transparency in our everyday work. We:
- share information openly
- report honestly
- engage with partners and people to ensure accountability in everything we do
Accessible information
We provide timely, accurate and easy to understand updates on our plans and strategies.
Inclusive engagement
We actively listen to feedback and involve partners and people in shaping our work.
Clear communication
We share our successes and challenges to foster accountability and improvement.
By being open and transparent in our reporting, our decision-making and our conversations, we aim to:
- strengthen trust
- drive collaboration
- ensure our work reflects the values we stand for