Supervision is important for everyone in health and social care. It helps people do their jobs better - whether you guide others or are learning yourself. This is a central place to learn about and make supervision even stronger. Whatever your role, supervision matters to you.
Supervision means different things to different people, but it often includes:
- Talking to someone who can help you think about your work
- Sharing ideas and solving problems together
There are different types of supervision:
- Professional supervision, educational supervision, and research supervision
- Managerial supervision and safeguarding supervision
- Clinical supervision and restorative supervision
- Coaching, mentoring and preceptorship
Supervision helps staff feel more confident and do their best. When others support you, the people you care for receive safer, kinder, and more helpful care.
Different Functions of Supervision
There are different kinds of supervision, and sometimes people use different descriptions. The significance lies in its application, not its name. In this hub, we look at four functions of supervision and explore how different types of supervision might show these functions.
Your workforce is your most valuable resource - and effective supervision plays a key role in supporting them to deliver high-quality care and support.
Skills for Care, Effective Supervision Guide![]()
Should you require any further information, please contact HEIW.MentalHealthWorkforcePlan@wales.nhs.uk
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Webpage last updated on: 27th January 2026