All Wales Induction Framework
For new social care workers, your employer will ensure you have a full induction into your role which includes completing the All Wales Induction Framework.
Social care workers who are new to the sector, organisation or job role should also complete the All Wales Induction Framework.
The framework
is split into seven sections about the knowledge, understanding and skills you'll need to gain during your induction period.
There are also digital learning modules that cover the code of professional practice, the importance of the Welsh language and culture and legislation that supports a rights-based approach.
Newly qualified social workers
Newly qualified social workers have guidance for their first three years in practice. Anyone qualifying after April 2016 will need to complete a consolidation programme in the first three years. We also encourage internationally qualified social workers to complete this programme if you qualified before April 2016, but it is optional.
If you qualified outside of Wales, to register as a social worker you need to have a qualification that's been assessed as equivalent to social work education in Wales. We have more information for social workers who qualified outside the UK, who want to register to work in Wales.
The social worker title is protected. Only people with a professional social work qualification who are registered can practise as social workers.
Qualifications
Anybody who’d like to work in social care, childcare and early years in Wales needs a qualification that’s listed in the qualification framework. If you hold an international qualification that isn’t on the list, you can ask us to assess your qualification.
If you have any questions about qualifications, we have a ‘chat’ function on our website to help you. You can also talk with your employer.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding practices differ in other countries. It’s important you’re aware of the safeguarding procedures in Wales. You can find out about the Wales Safeguarding Procedures on our website or via the app, which can be found in the app store for your device.
The Group A safeguarding e-learning module will give you an introduction and a practical understanding of safeguarding. You can identify which group training is required for your role here.
We also have resources and case studies to help you.
You should use these resources alongside your employer’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
On 21 March 2022, Wales joined more than 60 nations around the world in prohibiting the use of physical punishment of children in line with the Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Act 2020.
This means children in Wales have the same protection from assault as adults and means the physical punishment of children is prohibited in all settings in Wales.
Strengths-based practice
Strengths-based practice is when we work with an individual to understand what matters to them. We develop an understanding of what needs to happen to help the person live the best life possible, focusing on their overall well-being.
You can find out more about strengths-based practice on our website.
We’ve produced an e-learning module which contains information on strengths-based practice and legislation that supports a rights-based approach.
Welsh language and culture
Wales' culture is distinct with its own language, customs, festivals, music, art, cuisine, mythology, history and politics. We want to help you feel at home and part of the community in Wales.
Wales is a bilingual country, where we speak Welsh and English. There’s an expectation that a person who uses care and support services receives this in their language of choice. Receiving care and support in their preferred language means people feel more comfortable and can fully understand. There is more information about the ‘active offer’ and what this means in social care in More than just words.
You may want to consider learning to speak Welsh. Learning Welsh can help you provide care for everyone in Wales. It can also help you in your new life here in Wales. There’s a free online tool you can use to assess your Welsh language skills.
We’ve developed an e-learning resource on Welsh language awareness for new workers who want to learn more about the Welsh language, culture and working bilingually. It includes information about the Welsh language and bilingualism, what the law says, and what we must do and why.
We’ve created Camau courses in partnership with the National Centre for Learning Welsh especially for people working in social care. You could start by learning a few key phrases that would mean a lot to the people you support. This flexible, bitesize learning focuses on the Welsh words and phrases workers are most likely to need when you’re communicating with the people you support.
Infection prevention and control
You should read your employer’s policies and procedures for infection prevention and control carefully.
Good infection prevention and control (IP&C) practice is essential for maintaining a safe environment for everyone and reducing the risk of the spread of infection and infectious diseases.
We’ve developed a set of digital learning modules to help anyone working in social care or early years and childcare understand how to reduce the spread of infections.
You can find out more by watching this short video by Health Education Improvement Wales.
Employment rights
We understand that starting a new job in a new country can be daunting, exciting and overwhelming.
It’s important to know you have employment rights here in Wales and your employer will have policies and procedures in place to support you. You should read these carefully and ask questions if you’re unsure of anything.
We have a Code of Practice for Social Care Employers (the employers’ Code). This sets out the standards expected of social care employers. The focus of the employers’ Code is the standards required of employers to ensure a safe, skilled and appropriately supported social care workforce.
If you’d like more information, ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) provides guidance and advice on employment rights here in the United Kingdom.
Trade Unions
If you’re a worker in Wales, you have the right to belong to a Trade Union. You can find out more about joining a union on The Trade Union Congress (TUC) website.
Modern slavery
We know modern slavery (although rare) can happen in the social care sector. Modern slavery is a serious crime.
If you feel you’re a victim of slavery, you should seek help as soon as you can.
The Welsh Government have information about your rights and where you can get help to break free from slavery.
The Live Fear Free helpline provides help and advice to:
- anyone experiencing modern slavery, domestic abuse or sexual violence
- people who know someone who needs help
- practitioners seeking professional advice.
