Petition · Department for Education

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

Open for signatures 1,533 signatures

What the petition asks

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.

Timeline

13 May 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 1,533
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Education
Opened 13 May 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.