Unlike most other countries, Social Work in England is dominated by statutory Social Work delivered directly by Local Authorities or arm’s length trusts.
But that is far from the full picture. Since the 1990s, many Social Workers have taken up roles in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors. These roles may require a Social Work qualification, or it maybe that the Social Work skill set and ethical framework have prepared Social Workers to take them on.
Members in such roles have told us that their voices are rarely heard in BASW. This group aims to fill that gap and will work with members in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors to consider what other support members want.
As we launch the group, we are very pleased that members Bridget Little and Jon Hyslop have stepped forward to become interim co-chairs of the group: you can find out more about their ambitions for the group here. Not wanting to waste any time, they have also set some early goals including:
- Setting up an ‘opt-in’ mailing list for people who want to keep in touch with the group
- Recruit more members to support the group and agree a work plan for the group.
- Publishing a newsletter people can opt into receiving.
- Running a regular forum to give Social Workers who work in the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors the opportunity to critically reflect, challenge your thinking, share ideas and learn with peers.
To find out more about the group or to sign up for the newsletter please e-mail england@basw.co.uk or complete this short form
To find out about upcoming Voluntary and Community Sector Social Work forums, please see the BASW events page. Our ground rules for these forums can be found below.
The group is supported by BASW England professional officer, Andrew Reece andrew.reece@basw.co.uk