The Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council) is inviting members of the public and other interested stakeholders to join an online session to discuss its ongoing consultation on the review of registration fees.
The eight-week public consultation opened on 14 September and closes on 9 November 2026. As well as responding using the online survey, the Social Care Council is running a programme of online engagement sessions where people can hear more about the proposals, ask questions and share their views directly.
Session for the public and other stakeholders:
Tuesday 27 October, 3pm (afternoon session). Places are limited and can be booked via Eventbrite.
Note: These sessions are being recorded using transcription only, to help us accurately capture discussion. Transcriptions will be deleted after use and will not be shared or published externally.
Registered social workers, social care managers, social care practitioners and social work students, along with employers, have already been contacted directly by email with details of the sessions relevant to them. If you fall into one of these groups and have not received this communication, please contact us at businesssupport@niscc.hscni.net so we can make sure you have the information you need.
Why we need your views
Registration fees were last set in 2016. Since then, the Social Care Council’s Public Facing Register has grown by 102%, from 24,478 registrants in 2016 to almost 50,000 today, and Fitness to Practise referrals have increased by 40% over the last five years. Department of Health funding has fallen by 24% over six years, with a further 5% reduction required this year. The consultation sets out proposals for a phased, two-year approach to fee increases from 2027, subject to the outcome of the consultation.
Read our press release launching the consultation or our consultation page including our full Consultation document, Quick Reference Guide and FAQ, to find out more.
How to take part
As well as registering for this online session, you can respond to the consultation at any time using our online survey.
Alternative formats are available on request by emailing businesssupport@niscc.hscni.net or calling 028 9536 2600.
The consultation closes on 9 November 2026.