The Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) for Social Workers in England: Creating an Embedded Culture of Excellence, Ambition and Shared Values Across the Profession

Abstract

This chapter explores the purpose, development, impact, ownership and value of the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) for social workers in England. The PCF provides a common, generic framework for social work learning, practice and progression. It was published in its first form in 2012 by the then ‘College of Social Work’ (TCSW) for England having been developed by the ‘Social Work Task Force’ and ‘Social Work Reform Board’ over the preceding years. But the seeds of this first comprehensive framework for social work were sown a decade or more earlier. The PCF is now the responsibility of the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) following the closure of TCSW in 2015. Since its early development, the PCF has been embraced by the profession. It is widely seen as ‘owned’ and developed by social workers in England. It has provided an effective framework for teaching and learning at qualifying level and has shaped a range of national, governmental and sector-led post-qualifying resources and pathways.