This research report reviews international approaches to competency frameworks and in-service training for the social service workforce, drawing on experiences from the United Kingdom, Romania, Germany, France, Sweden, Poland, and other countries. It examines professional standards, competency frameworks, continuing professional development (CPD), accreditation systems, and workforce regulation, highlighting practices that strengthen service quality, professionalization, and alignment with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF).
Based on these findings, the report provides recommendations for Ukraine to establish a modern competency-based workforce development system. Key recommendations include updating professional standards, aligning education with occupational requirements, introducing structured CPD, strengthening accreditation mechanisms, and creating a national regulatory framework for social workers to improve the quality and consistency of services for children and families.
