Revised Codes of Practice launch on 1 May 2024

We have revised the Codes of Practice and the updated version will come into effect on 1 May. 
 
You can read more about the review, the changes we've made and download a text version of the updated Codes here ahead of the launch.
 
The easy to view digital, printable versions of the Codes of Practice will be available here from 1 May. 

The Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers

The Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers (the Codes) set out the behaviours and values expected of social service workers and their employers.

Download the 2016 SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers.

We have posters and leaflets to help you promote and use the Codes in your service. You can download them here. 

SSSC Code of Practice for Social Service Workers

The Code of Practice for Social Service Workers sets out clear standards of professional conduct and practice that social service workers must meet in their everyday work.

Workers are responsible for making sure they meet the required standards and that nothing they do, or don’t do, harms the wellbeing of people who use services.

The Code is part of the wider package of legislation, practice standards and employers’ policies and procedures that social service workers must meet.

We expect social service workers to meet the standards in the Code and may take action if registered workers fail to do so.

SSSC Code of Practice for Social Service Employers

The SSSC Code of Practice for Social Service Employers sets out the responsibilities of employers in the regulation of social service workers.

Employers are responsible for making sure they meet the required standards and support their workers to meet the standards set out in the Code for Social Service Workers.

The Care Inspectorate take the Codes of Practice into account during inspection of services and may take action to support improvement or require change if providers don’t meet the required standards.

What do the SSSC Codes of Practice mean for the public?

By setting clear standards of professional practice and behaviour, the Codes are an important part of regulating and improving the quality of care for people who use services.

The Codes let you know what you can expect from social service workers.

If you are concerned a worker providing a service for you or someone you care for does not meet the standards set out in the Codes you need to tell someone. Visit our raising a concern page to find out more.