By Emma Maier
Ed Balls has been quoted several times in the media recently saying that the social work profession doesn't bang on his door like other professions. But I was in a room of social workers yesterday, and the consensus was that they are banging - the problem is that he isn't letting them in.
So who is right? In some ways it doesn't matter... What matters is not reality but perception. And at the moment, it is Balls's version that has been aired in the media, so whether he is right or not, his is the prevailing view. Though the very fact that his view is in the media suggests there is some truth in what he says.
Social workers can grumble that he isn't fairly reflecting all the lobbying that the profession does. But if they want to make a difference, they must act in such a way that he can't legitimately make such statements.
They must bang the door more loudly - and ensure that they also disturb the neighbours.
Other professions do do this. Teachers, doctors - even the WI - have been known to offer a slow hand clap in response to a ministerial speaker at an major event. They sometimes boo and jeer. Sometimes they write strongly worded columns in the papers. Such a responses - under the watchful eye of the media - make it impossible for a minister to give the impression that the profession is not offering a view.
These methods may seem inappropriate or uncomfortable. But the profession does need to find a way of not only giving its views but also ensuring that they are heard.
This will require a spokesperson or organisation to take that role. It will also require greater professional confidence. Social workers are the experts on social work. Yet too often they play second fiddle - to doctors, judges, ministers. It is time that the profession had a strong voice prepared to challenge and prepared to assert the wealth of knowledge and experience within.
Many social workers recognise the need for a stronger voice in the context of the media. But as time goes on, it will become increasingly important in the spheres of policy and politics too. In recent years, the government has often been responsive to numerous sectors, social work and social care included. But with major cuts to public sector spending looming large, the answer to requests for investment and change is going to increasingly likely to be "no". Only those who shout loudest will be heard.
You are so right.
I agree, good blog.