We recognize the pressing issues within the social work profession and the urgent need for comprehensive action to address these challenges. We call upon professional social workers, mental health professionals, community members, service receivers, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), schools of social work, lawmakers, and state licensing boards to unite in advocating for and implementing the following crucial actions:

1. Maintain Professional Standards that Include Licensing Tiers Based on Scopes of Practice

Implementing tiered licensing standards will allow professionals to choose the level of licensure that aligns with their skills and career goals, fostering development and specialization without compromising public trust. We advocate for the implementation of tiered licensing to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse skills and expertise within the social work profession. Tiered licensing standards would reflect varying levels of education, training, and experience, enabling a nuanced and specialized approach to addressing the complex needs of individuals and communities.

2. Maintain or Create Measure(s) of Competency

We acknowledge the need for improvement in the licensing process and we emphasize the importance of maintaining a robust measure of competency for social workers entering the profession. Until a reliable alternative is established, the examinations must remain to ensure public safety, equity, and oversight.

3. Support Adequate Compensation

To address social work shortages and retain skilled professionals, we call for increased compensation and benefits. Rather than lowering standards, we advocate for incentives to attract and retain social workers, following successful models employed in other professions facing shortages.

4. Create Universal Standards for Clinical Supervision

Recognizing the impact of quality supervision on professional development, we propose the creation of universal standards for the provision of clinical supervision. This ensures that new professionals receive adequate oversight and support, preventing burnout and promoting ethical practice.

5. Reject Policies that Devalue or Delicense the Profession

We oppose the removal of the examination requirement without a clear and unbiased alternative. Eliminating the current measure of competency without a replacement may lead to the devaluation and potential delicensing of the social work profession.

6. Tackle Institutional Discrimination

The release of the data from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) began a nationwide conversation about institutional discrimination in social work. The conversation should not end there. Demand transparency in social work education and practice by urging CSWE, NASW, and schools of social work to release comprehensive data on race, ethnicity, language, age, and income. This transparency is crucial for addressing and rectifying institutional discrimination within the field.

7. Intervene Systemically

Addressing disparities and biases requires systemic and individual efforts. We propose interventions such as combating institutionalized racism, creating alternative paths to licensure, providing study materials and examination preparation courses, implementing voucher programs, diversifying recruitment practices, and critically evaluating licensing examinations on a regular basis.

Conclusion

The future, reputation, and compensation of the social work profession are at a critical juncture. By signing this petition, we urge all stakeholders to take immediate and collective action to safeguard the profession of social work. Together, let us build a future where social workers can thrive and continue to make a positive impact on individuals and communities.

 

For the full statement, for more information, or to get more involved, visit https://www.savesocialwork.org/ .