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Open petition: Reverse the DfE rules that restrict agency social workers’ pay and movement

Created by Arlene Jones
Closes on

Reverse new DfE rules that cap agency social worker pay, restrict movement, and impose conditions that push workers into permanent local authority roles.

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.

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  • Petition published

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    If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.

    If this petition gets 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.

    This petition will stay open until 13 November 2026.