The framework is implemented across England by nineteen post qualifying education and training consortia.  Following devolution, separate arrangements now apply in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In October 2001, the role of the Central Council for Education and Training in Social Work as the awarding body for the post- qualifying awards was taken over by the General Social Care Council (GSCC).

Each consortium is made up of local social work agencies and academic institutions working in collaboration.

Consortia are required to: 

• provide registration, assessment and award systems for candidates;
• ensure arrangements to support and guide candidates on how they should prepare for assessment;
• provide registration systems for assessors and mentors;
• administer the Post Qualifying Candidate Bursary system on behalf of the General Social Care Council (GSCC);
• provide flexible, open and accessible structures which are as simple and straightforward as possible;
• operate within equal opportunities policies;
• monitor the operation of these structures.

Normally candidates register with the consortium in the area in which they work or, if not employed, in the area in which they live.  For further details, please click on the following link, consortia addresses.