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There are more than 212,000 people working in social services in Scotland. This includes social care workers, social workers, social work students and children and young people workers in a range of care services, in residential and day centres, community facilities and in people’s homes.
We protect the public by registering this workforce, setting standards for their practice, conduct, training and education and by supporting their professional development. Where people fall below the standards of practice and conduct, we can investigate and take action.
people registered with the SSSC as at 01 May 2026
of all Scottish employment is in social services
of registrants hold the qualification for registration
of registrants have fitness to practise concerns raised
This video gives a clear overview of our role as the regulator for the social work, social care and children and young people workforce explaining our work to uphold professional standards and protect people who use social services across Scotland.
If you require a text transcript of this video, please contact us to discuss your requirements.