How to...handle difficult conversations
Even the most experienced social workers can struggle with broaching sensitive topics, whether with service users or colleagues. Communications consultant Natasha Stone offers advice on how to prepare for and handle difficult conversations.
08 May 2012
Ask the Expert: becoming a family support worker
I have recently completed a degree in criminology and law, and I want to pursue a career as a family support worker - but lack experience. What's the best way to go about getting to this field?
01 December 2011
How to…work with housing colleagues
BASW policy development officer Joe Godden explores how social workers can work better with their colleagues in housing
17 November 2011
How to… contribute to adult safeguarding meetings
Chris Russell offers advice on how to make the best of every opportunity a safeguarding meeting provides.
13 October 2011
How to... deliver high-quality staff development with less money
With major reductions in spending affecting social care providers, many in the sector fear that training budgets will be among the first targets for cuts. However, it is still possible to deliver high-quality training with less money.
09 October 2011
Ask the Expert: how can I gain experience shadowing a social worker?
Many MA social work courses require students to shadow a qualified social worker before they begin the course. Most students are expected to arrange this themselves. However, because of the nature of the social work profession, finding someone to shadow isn't always that easy.
06 October 2011
Quality in practice: how to ensure you recruit the best professionals
Social work recruitment specialist Jonathan Coxon offers tips for social work managers and interviewers when recruiting
26 September 2011
How to... take industrial action
Public sector unions are planning a national day of strike action in November in response to government reform of pensions. Meanwhile, local disputes surrounding pay and job cuts are continuing throughout the UK. Here is an at-a-glance guide for social workers considering industrial action.
28 September 2011
How to... manage your manager
Developing a strong working relationship with your line manager can improve your practice and make for an easier life all round, but it's a two-way process. Here, Jonathan Coxon, managing director of social work recruitment agency Liquid Personnel, explains how to manage your manager
06 April 2011
How to... deal with intimidating families
Ray Braithwaite offers guidance on managing highly resistant behaviour
01 September 2011
How to... supervise your peers
Peer supervision enables social workers to go beyond individual limitations and to expand on their knowledge, skills and experiences - as long as power imbalances are left at the door. Claudia Megele offers tips on how to make the most of your peers' experiences and opinions
30 August 2011
How to…deal with personality clashes
Five steps to better conflict resolution with clients.
25 August 2011
How to…find that elusive first job
Graduates seeking their first role as a qualified social worker can enhance their employability as well as check Community Care's job pages, finds Daniel Lombard
16 August 2011
How to... sustain peer learning as a lone social worker
How to sustain peer learning when you're the only social worker around
04 July 2011
How to... keep service user data safe
Data protection expert David Taylor offers practical tips on keeping service users' case files safe and protecting yourself from possible misconduct allegations
12 August 2011
How to...make the most of e-learning and forums
E-learning and online forums provide an affordable and easy way to undertake continuing professional development, but they can also help social workers to connect with colleagues and other agencies. Here, Claudia Megele gives advice to practitioners and managers on making the most of the resources available.
12 August 2011
How to... prepare for prison visits
Walking into a prison can be an intimidating experience, but social workers can take steps to make the process easier, finds Kirsty McGregor
03 August 2011
How to... support clients who direct their own care
How should social workers support clients who direct their own care, asks Gordon Carson
01 July 2011
Ask the Expert: how can I get a qualified social work role?
Martin Salter offers advice to a foreign national with limited UK-based statutory experience on finding a qualified social work role during a period of council job shortages.
31 May 2011
Ask the Expert: staying safe on home visits
Nicole Vazquez outlines precautions care workers and their employers can take against harassment during home visits
31 May 2011
