What We Do

SWIA inspects all social work services in Scotland and reports publicly and to Parliament on the quality of these services, locally and nationally.

With the emphasis on People, and working in partnership with other agencies, we aim to improve social work practice and so make a real difference in people's lives.

We undertake joint inspection work with colleagues such as HM Inspectorate of Education, to produce all-round reports and reviews.

When requested by Scottish Ministers, we also:

  • carry out investigations
  • provide professional support to policy development
  • undertake other tasks that need up-to-date professional knowledge and expertise

Our work supports the policy priorities of the modernising White Paper, Aiming for Excellence, as well as the findings now emerged from the Changing Lives Reviews.