News & Events

Aug 14, 2026 — In June 2022, the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW) received letters of complaint regarding the conduct of registrant Philip Patey, of Halifax Nova Scotia, registration #2335. NSCSW imposed interim restrictions on Mr. Patey’s registration during the investigation, and later suspended it as the result of a discipline hearing held on February 9, 2026.

We encourage our members to review decision information, to gain insight into the reasons for decisions and the College’s discipline process. It is important for all social workers in Nova Scotia to understand the College’s role in ensuring that Nova Scotians can rely on professional, ethical social work practice.

June 18, 2026 — As International Pride Month kicks off a season of Pride celebrations across the region, NSCSW calls on social workers to advocate for and promote social justice and joy for 2SLGBTQIA+ people and social workers.

Jun 18, 2026 — NSCSW is inviting members to share their feedback on two new standards that have been proposed to fulfil the RHPA’s requirements for social workers to report sexual misconduct from registrants in regulated health professions. If you have insight to share, please reach out by August 30.

Jun 16, 2026 — The College’s Council is looking for a member in child welfare to appoint to the Board of Examiners (BOE). The BoE currently oversees the application of regulatory policy, approves social work applicants, and makes all decision regarding the complaints and discipline matters brought before the College. The role of the BOE is projected to change in 2027 as part of the RHPA transition.

June 18, 2026 — National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21 aren’t just dates to acknowledge. They’re an invitation to truly engage, to learn, to reflect, and to create new meaning and new approaches to the work we do.

Jul 13 — Learn about the Check Me Out tool and resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ sexual health in Nova Scotia.

June 12, 2026 — Social Worker Candidates who started writing their learning agreement before the new Code of Ethics was launched and have not yet submitted it yet have a grace period remaining to submit their draft goals for NSCSW approval. The deadline to submit learning agreements based on the previous code and standards is August 22, 2026. All learning agreements received after that date must align to the new Code.

Jul 9, 2026 — NSCSW members are invited to share feedback & insights related to upcoming regulatory changes in Nova Scotia

Jul 9, 2026 — Learn about the principles of peer support grounded in connection, mutual understanding, and non-clinical support.