Len Smith
Gypsy activist
It's probably unfair to say social workers don't listen to service users, but whether they then implement what they are told is another matter. The end user is an "expert" in his or her own case, and knows better than anyone what they need. That's not to say the user should be in total control, but their input should be valued and not dismissed out of hand.
Joan Scott
Inspired Services
I don't think they listen enough. Social workers have got used to dealing with emergencies only. If they were to listen and help a bit earlier, when the problems start, it would be easier to sort out and cheaper for them. So, when dealing with people with learning difficulties, they should ask what practical support they need early on before things go wrong.
Karen Shook
Disability equality adviser
Although many want to listen to service users and improve services, choice and independence, it often depends on budgets and how flexible workers can be when agreeing care plans. Receiving services often depends on "life and limb" criteria and social workers are forced to work within resources, regardless of what users want.
Kierra Box
Young people's activist
I would like a more listening approach. Social care is in danger of becoming a punishment model which simply assumes responsibility for those facing social, mental or physical problems. Under this government less successful parents and families have been criminalised with no attempt to intervene in or understand the previous situation.
