The South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP) is the statutory regulatory body responsible for overseeing the social service professions in South Africa. Established in terms of the Social Service Professions Act 110 of 1978, the council ensures that social service practitioners maintain high standards of professional conduct, ethics, and competence. Its primary role is to protect the public by regulating the registration, education, and practice of professionals working in the social services sector.
SACSSP registers and regulates a range of social service professionals, including social workers, social auxiliary workers, and child and youth care workers. By setting professional standards and enforcing a code of ethics, the council promotes accountability and integrity within the profession. The council also works closely with training institutions and relevant stakeholders to ensure that education and training programs meet national requirements and equip practitioners with the necessary skills to serve communities effectively.
Through its regulatory and developmental functions, SACSSP plays an important role in strengthening the social service sector in South Africa. The council supports professional growth through continuing professional development (CPD), promotes ethical practice, and ensures that practitioners remain competent throughout their careers.