What will I learn on this module?
The Introduction to Law and Social Policy module will provide a foundation for lawful, ethical, and safe practice; enabling apprentices to understand the technical and applied aspects of social work law. It will provide apprentices with an opportunity to develop critical knowledge and skills in legal literacy and an understanding of the ethical, rights-based and social justice basis of social work practice. The module themes will be explored with reference to the Children Act 1989; The Care Act 2014; The Mental Capacity Act 2005; The Human Rights Act 1989, The United Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989, and the Equality Act 2010.
This module will equip apprentices with the foundational knowledge and skills for social work within the required legal frameworks which inform practice. We will examine social policy, exploring how it shapes the services available and the impact on individuals and communities. Apprentices will gain a foundational understanding of the legal frameworks that govern social work, along with the roles and responsibilities social workers hold within those legal contexts. Ethical considerations, the relevance and application of Social Work England's professional standards, and legal duties towards service users and communities will also be addressed. The importance of human rights in social work will be examined, highlighting a role as an advocate for social justice and how legal and policy knowledge empowers social workers to champion the needs of marginalised populations. Finally, the module will explore the importance of collaboration with other professionals, emphasising effective communication and partnership-building and collaborative-working skills as essential tools for success in the field.
How will I learn on this module?
This module utilises a comprehensive approach to foster a well-rounded learning experience. Apprentices will engage in short lectures that provide clear introductions to key concepts and strategies. Small group seminars will then allow apprentices to delve deeper through real-life scenarios and group activities. To solidify understanding, apprentices will also have dedicated time for self-directed learning outside of classroom-based learning experiences. Seminars will incorporate reflection exercises, prompting an examination of how a developing knowledge of law and policy influences professional growth and decision-making. Additionally, guest speakers, including educators with practical experience and registered social workers, will offer unique perspectives on the intersection of law and social policy in everyday practice. Finally, an e-learning portal through Blackboard will provide easy access to additional resources and materials to complement the lectures and seminars.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
To ensure specific development of relevant academic and research skills, this module offers a comprehensive support system. Scheduled teaching and workshops will provide a blend of clear explanations and practical group exercises to hone specific skills. Additionally, apprentices may benefit from personalised support through personal and/or group tutoring or mentoring sessions, allowing staff to identify, tailor and meet their guidance needs. Beyond classroom hours, the online portal offers valuable resources such as reading lists and research databases, facilitating self-paced study. Peer support groups will create a collaborative environment where apprentices can share experiences, learn from each other, and build a strong sense of community. Finally, dedicated academic advisors are available to offer personalised guidance on academic planning, writing, research, and citation styles.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding (K&U):
KU1. Understand social workers' legal responsibilities and ethical considerations, including human rights adherence.
KU2.Gain knowledge of key legal frameworks and legislative processes relevant to social work.
Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities (IPSA):
IPSA1.Identify the rights and perspectives of service users and carers and articulate the implications of these for good social work practice.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
PVA1: Understand the application of law in relation to rights and responsibilities.
PVA2: Promote social justice and positive change within organizations and communities.
How will I be assessed?
Formative Assessment.
Apprentices will present a 10-minute group presentation based on a community organisation of their choice where they will discuss how an understanding of social work law and policy could uphold rights and promote social justice for users of the group.
Feedback will be provided by the tutor and members of the Department’s Educators by Experience group.
Summative Assessment
In agreement with the module lead apprentices will select an individual or family who they are working with to critique in relation to social work knowledge, legal intervention, case law and policy. Apprentices will provide an analysis of up to 3,000 words.
Feedback: Tutors will formally assess summative assessment providing written feedback and marks based on the assessment criteria contained in the module handbook. (All MOL to be addressed)
Pre-requisite(s)
none
Co-requisite(s)
DA4088, DA4091, DA4092, DA4093
Module abstract
The Introduction to Law and Social Policy provides a comprehensive exploration of thenational and wider international legal and policy frameworks that are essential to social work practice in a diverse range of settings. The module is designed to equip social work apprentices with a deeper understanding of their roles and legal responsibilities within various professional settings, with a strong emphasis on ethical practice and adherence to human rights and social justice. The module links to the placement module providing apprentices with the opportunity to link theory and knowledge of legal frameworks to practice in different agency contexts.
Course info
Credits 30
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time
Department Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing
Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start January 2026
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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