The role of registration in assuring ethical practice
The IASSW report on global qualifying standards (Second reviewed discussion document: Global Qualifying Standards for Social Work Education & Training August 2002) refers directly to registration (section 9.3). In doing so it assumes a defined codes of ethics, but suggests that in the absence of the existence of binding national and/or regional codes of ethics, the formulation of a code of ethics is necessary. This code should be consistent with the values and principles of the profession, and with international norms regarding human rights and social justice.
In New Zealand and the 4 countries of the UK registration for social workers is currently being introduced. Significant differences in the processes, practices and procedures of registration have been noted. This paper will provide a comparison of the processes, practices and procedures of registration in the UK and New Zealand. It will analyse whether, and in what ways, registration is linked to the existence or development of a code of ethics in these countries. In discussing the links between registration and regulation the paper will consider to what extent registration can ensure and assure ethical practice.