📢 Barnet UNISON Update: Professional Registration Fees for Social Workers
Dear Members,
Barnet UNISON is continuing to advocate on behalf of our social work members regarding the issue of professional registration fees.
We recently wrote to the employer requesting that Barnet Council consider covering the cost of annual professional registration fees for social workers. This request was made in recognition of the fact that registration with Social Work England is a statutory requirement—without it, social workers cannot legally practice or be employed in their role.
In response, the employer reiterated their current policy of not paying professional subscriptions for staff, citing that such requirements are already considered within the job evaluation process. They also expressed concerns about affordability and fairness across different professions.
We have responded to this position by highlighting that:
- Social workers are uniquely impacted by this statutory requirement, which is not optional and must be renewed annually.
- This ongoing cost is not currently reflected in the job evaluation process, despite repeated concerns raised by UNISON over the years.
- Other councils do support their social workers with this cost, and we believe Barnet should review its stance in light of this growing trend.
We have formally requested a meeting with senior management and HR to discuss this issue further and explore potential solutions, including a review of the job evaluation process and possible financial support options.
📌 Please keep an eye out for further updates as we continue to push for a fair and equitable outcome for our members.
If you have any questions on this matter, please email Barnet UNISON at contactus@barnetunison.org.uk.
In solidarity, Barnet UNISON
