Jane Shears heads up Scotland and Northern Ireland

"I look forward to ensuring our members are at the forefront of shaping the future vision of our profession."

Dr Jane Shears has been appointed as the new National Director for Scotland and Northern Ireland. The changes mean that Alison Bavidge has decided to transition away from full-time formal work to embrace a fuller life in Edinburgh, enjoy being a granny in Dundee, and explore what lies beyond social work. She will continue contributing to the profession through her involvement with Social Work Scotland and ongoing work around social care in prisons with the Scottish Government.

Dr Shears has headed up BASW’s Professional Development and Education since 2018 and serves as the Global Commissioner of the IFSW Ethics Commission. She has also continued to practice as a mental health social worker, giving her a strong grounding in the challenges and experiences of everyday practice.

Dr Shears said:

“This is a critical time for social work in Scotland, and I look forward to working with such a great team of colleagues in SASW to ensure our members are at the forefront of shaping the future vision of our profession.

“I extend my thanks to Alison for her steadfast commitment to furthering SASW’s strong influence and reputation among the social work profession and beyond. I’m looking forward to carrying on her excellent work continuing to give our members a platform to drive positive change and influence what matters in social work today.”

Alison has been a leading figure within Scottish social work during her time as National Director, strengthening SASW’s influence and reach with policy-makers at the very top of the Scottish Government and alongside other key partners. Alison has fought tirelessly and passionately for a stronger social work profession in Scotland, ensuring the distinct needs and interests of Scottish members are understood and heard throughout BASW and further afield.

Alison giving evidence to a committee of MSPs at Holyrood

Alison speaking at the Scottish Social Services Awards

Alison with the Scottish Government's Justice Secretary, Angela Constance MSP

Since taking up the role during the Covid-19 pandemic, Alison has secured a number of notable achievements on behalf of SASW’s members and the wider profession in Scotland. This includes improved bursary funding for postgraduate students, establishing the first ever Cross-Party parliamentary group for social work at Holyrood, advocating for vastly better working conditions through the One Deal for Social Work campaign, and developing a comprehensive training offer to practitioners that recognises the unique needs of the profession in Scotland.

Commenting, Alison said: “Working with SASW has been a truly wonderful experience. These five years were initially shaped by the pandemic and a wave of policy developments, including the National Care Service Bill and The Promise. I’m proud of our achievements - increased student bursaries, our commitment to tackling racism in social work, delivering the first ever Cross-Party Group on Social Work at the Scottish Parliament, and influencing the progress toward national terms and conditions for social workers across Scotland, amongst many other successes.

“Your membership matters more than ever now. Getting the National Social Work Agency and its Chief Executive into the Care Reform Act means that social work in Scotland is better positioned to influence Government across the range of Ministerial portfolios that have reach into the profession. Credible and independent of Government, SASW’s work with the Scottish Parliament, and our national and local politicians means your voices are heard at the highest levels of decision-making in Scotland. We can’t do it without your support.

“I leave SASW members in the capable hands of our amazing team. This small and talented group champions our amazing profession for social workers and all of us who need social support at some point in our lives. I remain a proud BASW member, and I hope our paths will cross soon.”

Under Alison's guidance, SASW has grown stronger, more inclusive, and more responsive to the challenges facing our society.

SASW Co-Chairs, Caroline McDonald and Dr Toyin Adenugba

SASW Co-Chairs, Caroline McDonald and Dr Toyin Adenugba added:

“Alison's commitment to social justice, equity, and the empowerment of both practitioners and the communities they serve has left an indelible mark on the profession. From your early work in residential childcare to your strategic leadership across sectors, you have consistently championed the values that lie at the heart of social work.

“Under Alison's guidance, SASW has grown stronger, more inclusive, and more responsive to the challenges facing our society. Your work on anti-racism, justice reform, and community resilience has inspired many and set a powerful example of what compassionate, courageous leadership looks like.

“Beyond your professional achievements, your warmth, humour, and humanity have made you a cherished colleague and friend. Whether through your love of dance or granny duties, you’ve reminded us all of the importance of joy and connection. As you move on to new adventures, we wish you every success and happiness. Your legacy will continue to shape the future of social work in Scotland and beyond.”