If you fall into any of the groups specified for compulsory registration you need to register with the SSSC or be registered with another regulatory body by the specified date. If you don’t it will mean your employer will be committing an offence.

If you're unsure whether you are eligible for registration, speak to your manager.  Or if you're unsure of which part of the Register to apply for download the definitions of Register parts.

View the list of groups specified for compulsory registration here.

I am a new recruit.  Can I start my new job whilst my application is being processed?

A new worker can work whilst their application is being processed.

If you are newly recruited to your post you should apply for registration as soon as possible on starting your new employment and should achieve registration within six months of taking up that employment or until your application for registration is determined, whichever is the shorter.

I am a social work student and work in social services too

If you are a registered social work student and also working in a service where workers are required to be registered with the SSSC, your registration as a student will not cover your post and you have to apply for registration on the part of the Register applicable to your employment.

I work in more than one job that requires registration

If you have more than one job and there is a compulsory registration requirement for both roles, you will need to be registered for both.

This also applies if you are enrolled on an undergraduate or postgraduate social work degree course while working in a social care role that requires compulsory registration. In this case, you must apply to be on the part of the Register for social work students and the relevant part of the Register for your social care role.

Registration whilst on maternity leave

If you are working in a service where registration with the SSSC is required to continue working and you go on maternity leave, you must maintain your registration during this time.