Some social workers are losing up to £6,000 a year as a result of job reviews under single status agreements, BASW - the College of Social Work reports today.
Dave Allen, a senior office in BASW's advice and representation team, said social workers were living in a "climate of fear", terrified of losing their jobs.
He said the team was dealing with a rising number of calls from worried social workers, particularly those negatively affected by job reviews or those losing their car allowance.
His comments come days after Local Government Employers announced a pay freeze for staff including social workers, leading one Community Care editor to wonder whether improving social work is truly a government priority, as ministers claim.
Perhaps more worryingly, Southampton Council has approved plans to slash pay by around £1,300 for social workers (earning £30,000).
This, the council says, will save hundreds of jobs. But unions are outraged, claiming savings could be found elsewhere. Union officials expect members to vote against the proposals, but the council can introduce the changes by dismissing staff and making them re-apply for their jobs. This would be an aggressive move, but it is one that is becoming increasingly prevalent.
And so it seems war has indeed been declared on social workers' pay.
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