ARE SOCIAL CARE MANAGERS READY FOR PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION AND WHAT WILL THE IMPLICATIONS BE ON THEIR ROLE?

Abstract This paper provides an overview of social care managers understanding of CORU (Irish Social Care Registration Board) and the professional registration process. It is timely as it focuses on the responsibilities that social care managers have inherited due to the commencement of registration in November 2023. Furthermore, it emphasises the dual responsibilities that social care managers will take on, both as a manager and as a practitioner. Literature is presented in relation to the history of social care and the evolution of the regulation of the social care sector. The literature extends to offer a comparative context specific to UK and global registration models whilst also addressing management and leadership approaches within the social care sector. The methodology employed in this research study was a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. Data was collected from six participants: four social care managers working in non-statutory children’s residential care centres in the Republic of Ireland and two representatives from CORU. The findings are presented under three broad themes; understanding professional registration, implications and impact of registration on managers; and planning for professional registration. Findings reveal that CORU are prepared and clear about the registration process. Although social care managers were clear about the role of CORU, ambiguity exists in terms of their own role as managers in relation to professional registration. Recommendations from research findings are presented. Keywords: Residential Care Managers; Professional Registration; CORU; Leadership.