Use of title “Social Worker”

Only those registered with SASW may use the title “social worker”

Section 24 of the Social Workers Act which states: 

No person other than a member shall engage in the practice of social work by using the title "social worker".

SASW takes the use of title very seriously. The requirements to be designated as a registered social worker and the privilege of being able to use the title "social worker" are set by The Social Workers Act, the by-laws of the Association, and SASW Council.

What authority does SASW have over individuals who are not registered and using the title “Social Worker?”

Section 42 of the Social Workers Act further states:

“Every person who contravenes section 24 is guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine of:

1. In the case of a first offence, not more than $2000.00;
2. In the case of a second offence, not more than $4000.00; and
3. For each subsequent offence, not more than $6000.00 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or to both that fine and imprisonment.
   

Are you concerned that someone is using the title “social worker” and not sure if the individual is registered with SASW?

The first thing you can do is check the SASW website to see if the individual is registered.  On the main SASW web site under the “Public Information” tab click on “Find a Social Worker”.  Enter the individual’s name.  If the individual does not appear they are likely not registered. 
If you did not find the individual through our web site you can then proceed to contact the SASW Registrar at 306-545-6878 or via e-mail at registrar.sasw@accesscomm.ca. The Registrar can do a double check to see if the individual is registered but not showing on the website.  If the individual is not registered the Registrar will proceed to make contact with you to determine the details of your concern regarding the use of title. 

Can I make an anonymous complaint?

The Registrar may or may not require you to reveal your identity to follow-up on your concern.
If you have documentation where the individual is using the title “social worker” such as a business card or links on the internet, it may not be necessary to reveal your identity to follow-up on the complaint.  In situations where the individual verbally represented themselves as a “social worker” the Registrar would require a statement from you to proceed.

What will the Registrar do once I provide the documentation that an individual is using the title ‘social worker” and is not Registered?

If the Registrar has sufficient evidence that an individual is using title in absence of registration the Registrar makes contact with the individual in writing to advise of the issue and make them aware they are contravening the Social Workers Act.  The individual is required by the Registrar to provide a written response to the concern and confirmation that they have complied with the Registrar’s request to cease use of title.  If the individual does not respond to the Registrar, SASW may proceed to take legal action as per Section 42 above.

I really am not sure about bringing a complaint forward?

The Registrar is always available to have at least an initial conversation about your concern and provide some guidance on what can be done to address your concern. We rely on others to bring these issues to our attention so we can address and ensure protection of the public.