Understanding the emerging use of artificial intelligence in social work education and practice in England

Social Work England commissioned Research in Practice to explore the emerging use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in social work education and practice in England. The research, conducted in 2025, aimed to understand the types of AI being used, opportunities and risks, workforce preparedness and identify  implications for the professional standards for social workers.

This report summarises the views, hopes and concerns shared with us about the use of AI in social work practice and education by social workers, social work employers, educators and AI experts.

As the use of AI changes and grows as technology develops, the implementation of the recommendations in this report become more urgent, so the potential of AI can be developed and implemented in ways that enhance and support the social work role and equitably amplifies the voices of people with lived and learned experience.