Scots launch key social work review

The “fundamental look” at social work promised in the wake of the
Borders abuse case will be undertaken in a year-long independent
review, it was announced last week.

Peter Peacock, minister for education and young people, said the
review had been established to help “define the future role for
social work and social workers” in Scotland.

It will look at the role of social work, leadership and management,
quality assurance and how best to deliver services, and whether the
current legislative framework is still suitable.

He added that the review would take into account the current review
of the Children’s Hearing System, the executive’s child protection
programme, and the impact of new legislation such as the Mental
Health Care and Treatment Act (Scotland) 2003 and the Antisocial
Behaviour Act 2003.

Douglas Bulloch, chair of the Scottish Children’s Reporter
Administration (SCRA) and a member of the review group, said:
“Social work is at the heart of many key policies in Scotland –
child protection, community care, youth crime, as well as
antisocial behaviour.

“It is important that we examine where social work and social
workers can be most effective in making positive difference in the
lives of individuals and communities.”

Peacock also confirmed that a new inspection agency for social work
would be created from next April.