Develop your knowledge of social work in relation to adult safeguarding. Share and evaluate your own practice. Progress from a newly qualified social worker to experienced social worker.
Aimed at current social work/care practitioners and other related professions, this short course will explore various areas of practice in Adult Safeguarding. You'll critically evaluate legislation, guidance and the theories and models underpinning safeguarding practice, explore current research in several areas of contemporary safeguarding practice, and share knowledge and experience with other practitioners.
Teaching and learning will include a recap of the legislation and guidance that mandates practice in safeguarding under Section 42 of the Care Act and exploration of recent and current research into safeguarding.
Successful completion of the course will help you to evidence development along the Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) for social work (BASW, 2018) from newly qualified social worker to experienced social worker.
The course is delivered at the Sir Tom Cowie Campus at St Peter's over four months between 9:30am and 4:30pm on the following dates:
The submission date is 9 July 2026.
You'll be expected to complete additional reading into areas of your interest and also have the opportunity to share and evaluate your practice alongside other students in your cohort.
Issues will be explored through discussion, reading, case study, and application of knowledge. You'll demonstrate your learning via a negotiated assessment in discussion with the course leader.
This course, worth 30 credits, is suitable for qualified and registered social workers. Applicants from other safeguarding roles may be considered – please contact the course leader to discuss at kristy.regan@sunderland.ac.uk.
The employer usually meets course costs – we advise you to speak to your workforce development lead before applying.
We also accept self-funded applicants and encourage anyone wishing to explore their options to contact cpd@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).
Contact the Corporate and Professional Education team for further information about applying for this course by calling 0191 515 3361(opens in new tab) or emailing cpd@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).