Liverpool supports social workers to return to practice
Liverpool City Council is calling on former social workers who have left the profession to consider returning in 2026.
The council is actively supporting the University of Manchester’s Return to Social Work course by offering placements and dedicated academy support for social workers, with up to 45 places available across the region.
The Return to Social Work programme, delivered by the University of Manchester is a short, part-time course designed for previously registered social workers who have been out of practice for two years or more. The programme combines a series of taught updates with supervised practice placements, enabling participants to refresh their skills, update their knowledge of contemporary legislation and safeguarding, and prepare to re-register with Social Work England.
Running from February to June 2026, the course includes in-person and online teaching, followed by supervised placement activity starting in April 2026, and concludes with a final in-person session in June. Applications close on 26 January 2026.
Cllr Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Liverpool City Council, said: “We are delighted to partner with the University of Manchester on this important initiative.
“Supporting returning social workers strengthens our workforce, builds capacity within children’s services, and ensures that experienced practitioners can confidently re-enter practice and contribute to positive outcomes for children, young people and families across our city.”
Jenny Glennard, Corporate Director for Children’s and Young People’s Services in Liverpool, said: “To support former social workers to return to the profession, we are providing high-quality practice placements within our amazing children’s services teams, giving returning social workers the opportunity to apply current practice standards in real-world settings.
“In addition, we offer academy-level mentoring and support throughout the placement period to reinforce learning, build confidence, and promote professional re-integration.”