Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a groundbreaking move to professionalize and regulate the social work sector, the Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone has passed the Professional Social Work Regulatory Act, 2025. This historic legislation marks the first time the country has enacted a legal framework to govern the practice, conduct, and standards of social work in Sierra Leone.

The Act establishes a robust system for the education, registration, licensing, and regulation of social workers and institutions, aimed at improving the quality, accountability, and effectiveness of social services nationwide.

A Landmark Victory for the Profession

The Sierra Leone Association of Social Workers (SLASW) has hailed the passage of the Act as a “landmark victory” and a transformative step for the field.

“This is a turning point,” said Dr. Sylvester Lamin, President of SLASW. “Social work is now a formally recognized and protected profession in Sierra Leone, and this Act will ensure that only trained, licensed, and ethical professionals are delivering services to our most vulnerable populations.”

Key Provisions of the Act

The newly enacted law establishes the Professional Social Work Regulatory Council, a statutory body mandated to oversee the regulation of social workers, social work assistants, and institutions delivering social services. Core responsibilities of the Council include:

• Maintaining a national register of social workers and service facilities

• Enforcing ethical and professional standards

• Accrediting training programs

• Ensuring adherence to licensing and renewal requirements

Under the Act, only individuals with approved educational qualifications (such as a degree or diploma in social work) who undergo the licensing and registration process will be allowed to practice legally. The law also recognizes social work assistants, sets standards for institutions, and mandates annual license renewals.

Safeguarding Clients and Enhancing Service Quality

A major focus of the Act is client protection. By enforcing professional and ethical standards, the law is designed to prevent unqualified or unethical practice and improve service delivery to individuals, families, and communities.

The legislation also introduces a disciplinary and appeals process, with penalties for violations including fines up to Le 25,000 and potential imprisonment of up to 12 months for practicing without a license.

A Milestone Years in the Making

The Act follows years of advocacy and consultation led by SLASW and the Ministry of Social Welfare, culminating in the presentation of the Bill earlier this year. Its passage comes shortly after the country concluded its first-ever National Census of Social Workers, laying a data-driven foundation for long-term sector reform.

Next Steps: National Implementation Begins

SLASW is urging all practicing social workers, institutions, and training programs to prepare for immediate compliance. The next phase of implementation begins with a National Conference on April 25th, where the National Social Work Census Report will be launched, and rollout plans for the new Act will be discussed.

With this legislative milestone, Sierra Leone joins a growing number of nations that have enshrined social work in law — a move expected to strengthen national development outcomes through improved social services.