Striking a balance

A report from the NSCSW Council Treasurer

The College continues to demonstrate financial resilience and strength, reporting a healthy surplus for the fiscal year 2023. This outcome is the result of prudent management and strategic oversight by the Council, which has undertaken several key projects this year. These include a strategic evaluation, a wellness campaign, and a significant report on child welfare. The Council has been committed to learning and improving how we work with consultants to maximize our use of resources efficiently.

In 2023, the addition of a new administrative support position significantly enhanced the functioning of the Regulatory and Candidacy Manager’s role, especially in handling the administration of complaints. This position was introduced as a necessary response to alleviate some of the workload challenges faced by the existing staff, ensuring that complaints could be processed both timely and fairly. Additionally, the creation of this role allowed the existing administrative support staff to focus more on member services, including professional development and outreach activities. This strategic staffing adjustment has contributed to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of our regulatory operations, while also enhancing the support provided to our members.

This was managed because Council has a policy related to fee increases that mandates gradual adjustments each year, aiming to prevent the need for substantial hikes in the future. It is crucial to understand that even when the College does not increase fees at the rate of inflation, it effectively amounts to a reduction in fees in real economic terms. Since implementing this policy, the College has consistently kept fee increases below the rate of inflation, showing restraint where possible in expenditures and maintaining the budget for core services that are essential, despite being unavoidably expensive.

Despite our solid financial footing, like all organizations, the College faces increasing financial pressures. Operating costs have been rising due to inflation, with expenses related to databases, computer services, and insurance all trending upwards. Additionally, changes to the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) fee structure were implemented to ensure fiscal integrity, allowing social work to maintain a voice at the national level.

Looking Ahead: The Proposed 2025 Budget

The proposed 2025 budget incorporates several important adjustments to respond to the current economic environment and our strategic goals. One of the notable proposals is a 3.5% fee increase, which is below the 2023 cost-of-living increase of 3.9%. This decision was taken to balance the need for organizational funding with the affordability concerns of our members. Additionally, the CASW has decided to continue its progression strategy with a $2 increase this year, included in the overall 3.5% fee adjustment.

Staffing Adjustments

In 2025, we are planning a significant role transformation within our structure—changing the Application and Renewal Administrator position to that of an Associate Registrar, specifically filled by a qualified social worker. This shift aligns with the NSCSW’s new strategic plan, aiming to redistribute some of the workload currently managed by the Registrar more effectively. Not only will this new position take on responsibilities in candidacy and professional standards, but it will also play a crucial role in managing assessments related to the newly introduced clinical specialization.

This change is designed to enhance our operational efficiency and ensure that these critical areas are managed by someone with direct social work experience and knowledge. By doing so, we aim to improve our service in maintaining high standards of practice across the board. This adjustment is essential for keeping pace with the evolving needs of the social work profession and the growing complexity of our regulatory responsibilities.

Budget Allocation

The budget carefully manages expenses while making allowances for inflationary pressures in certain areas, ensuring our operations continue without disruption. A significant aspect of this year’s budget is the adjustment of the baseline fee to $465.00, resulting in an annual increase of $16.00. This adjustment is more substantial than in previous years but is crucial for supporting the NSCSW’s strategic and operational objectives as we commence a new strategic plan. This plan necessitates additional resources for its successful implementation.

Our experience with the last strategic plan taught us that dedicating ourselves to our goals, persisting through challenges, and properly resourcing our initiatives can lead to significant achievements. This increase, although larger, is an investment in the future of the NSCSW and its members. It empowers us to bring our strategic vision to life, ensuring we continue to provide high-quality service without compromise.

Conclusion

The proposed 2025 budget represents a careful effort to strike a balance between financial sustainability and sensitivity to the economic challenges faced by our members and staff. Through strategic fee adjustments and targeted staffing changes, the NSCSW is poised to continue offering outstanding support and services to the social work community. Our goal is to ensure the College remains financially healthy, responsive, and ready for future growth and challenges, reflecting our commitment to excellence in serving our profession.

BY KATE MATHESON PREST NSCSW TREASURER