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Vacancies for social work posts in Scotland have almost doubled in two years, but the worst may be yet to come, writes David Craik.

According to new statistics from the British Association of Social Workers and Unison, vacancies have risen from 1,526 in 2000 to 2,861 in 2002. They also show that the number of people working in the profession has risen by only 7.6 per cent since 1999.

BASW warned that the number of vacancies will rise as many staff now in their fifties and sixties reach retirement age. “We believe the peak will be reached in 2005,” said spokesperson Ruth Stark.

The Scottish executive, however, said that the number of whole-time equivalent staff was 5 per cent higher than in 2001, rising from 34,688 to 36,415 and that a further 70 graduates would be “fast-tracked” into social work posts.

The scheme initially launched with 50 places in January can allow a three-year diploma to be completed within 15-18 months. 

Deputy Minister for education and young people Euan Robson said: “We are succeeding in our efforts to recruit and retain more social workers, but there can be no let up if supply is to keep up with demand.

"Those who complete the fast track diploma will be targeted at areas with the highest number of vacancies.” He added that 469 students will qualify as social workers this summer, a 25 per cent increase on 2002.