News

The Scottish Executive has promised a “fundamental look” at social work in the year-long independent review 21st Century Social Work, writes Maggie Wood. 

The review follows criticism of social work and surrounding services in the wake of the Borders abuse case.

The group will examine the modern day role of social workers and the profession’s leadership and management. It will also look at quality assurance, how best to deliver services, and whether the current legislative framework is still suitable. 

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

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 and Antisocial Behaviour Act.

The group which will be chaired by William Roe, an experienced public service consultant who has worked for Shelter and Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, will be made up of individuals from local authorities, health, the Scottish children’s Reporter Administration, ADSW, and children’s advocacy group Who Cares? Scotland. Further appointments are expected to be made to the group from the police and from education.


Alexis Jay, president of the Association of Directors of Social Work (ADSW) and also a member of the group said that ADSW welcomed the review of social work, and believed that the four key areas the review must focus on are the legal framework and robust inspection regime, political and professional leadership, and expectations of the public.

In addition to the announcement of the 21st Century Social Work review, Peacock confirmed that the Executive would create a new inspection agency for social work next April.