The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (the College) is the regulatory body for social workers and social service workers whose primary duty is to serve and protect the public interest. The College is accountable to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
Public Protection
The College’s ongoing mandate is to protect the public from unqualified, incompetent and unfit practitioners. The College serves and protects the public by:
- Setting entry-to-practice requirements to ensure that only those with specific educational qualifications are eligible for registration.
- Setting, maintaining and ensuring that all registrants follow the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
- Maintaining a Public Register of registered social workers (RSWs) and registered social service workers (RSSWs) in Ontario.
- Requiring registrants to engage in ongoing learning through the Continuing Competence Program (CCP).
- Maintaining rigorous complaints and discipline processes.
Complaints and Discipline
As part of its public protection mandate, the College considers and investigates reports and complaints regarding alleged misconduct of College registrants. The College ensures due processes are in place and ensure fairness and transparency for all parties.
Learn more about the College’s complaints and discipline processes, including how to file a complaint.
To learn more about the College, its history and administration, please visit our About Us page.