The University Centre Grimsby has announced the launch of a new social work degree program, following its recent accreditation as a social work education institute. This initiative aims to provide local individuals with the opportunity to pursue careers in social work, addressing a significant gap in accessible education for aspiring professionals in the region.
The accreditation was confirmed after an assessment by Social Work England in August. This specialist regulator defines the professional standards required for social workers in England. The new degree program is set to commence in September 2026 and will include a full-time BA (Hons) Social Work degree as well as a BA (Hons) Social Work Degree Apprenticeship. Both courses will be validated by TEC Partnership.
In a statement, Andy Cowdroy, social work lead at the University Centre Grimsby, expressed enthusiasm for the program’s potential impact. He noted, “The aim of setting up our social work programmes is to work collaboratively with local partners and stakeholders to deliver and maintain the social work workforce. There are so many people out there who would make amazing social workers but are unable to access education. This will no longer be the case; we can now provide local social work education for local people.”
Community leaders have welcomed the initiative as a significant investment in the region’s future. Ann-Marie Matson, director of children’s services at North East Lincolnshire Council, highlighted the partnership between the council and the university. She stated, “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the University Centre Grimsby, which has led to a social work degree course being created and will strengthen the local social work workforce. By developing skilled and passionate practitioners close to home, we can make a lasting difference to the lives of children, young people, and adults across our area.”
The importance of local training is further emphasized by John Allen, principal social worker for Adults Social Care. He remarked, “Having social work programmes delivered locally at the University Centre in Grimsby is a great step forward for our community. It means aspiring social workers can train close to home, strengthening the social care workforce and ensuring we reflect the needs of North East Lincolnshire.”
The creation of these courses follows grant funding from the Office for Students, aimed at enhancing higher education opportunities in the area. As Grimsby prepares to welcome its first cohort of social work students, the initiative stands as a promising development for the community, fostering local talent and addressing critical social needs.
This new educational offering is expected to not only strengthen the local workforce but also provide rewarding career paths for individuals passionate about making a difference in their community. With the backing of key local organizations and leaders, the University Centre Grimsby is poised to play a central role in shaping the future of social work in the region.
