Reverse the DfE rules that restrict agency social workers’ pay and movement
Reverse new DfE rules that cap agency social worker pay, restrict movement, and impose conditions that push workers into permanent local authority roles.
Signatures
1,349
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 1,349/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 1,349/100,000
- 13 MAY 2026Petition opened for signaturesCreated by Arlene Jones
Background
Sector bodies have raised concerns about limited consultation, the lack of a full, published impact assessment, and potential procedural issues in the development of the reforms. Community Care reports widespread worry among social workers, and BASW has noted concerns that the changes may worsen recruitment, retention and service stability. The reforms also target only social workers.