Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could possible point me in the right direction of finding some information on social work in the UK please?
I'm looking for information on self-disclosure from a social worker i.e. what the rules are in regards to what you can and can't say to your service users.
I trained in the US and the rules are about disclosure are set in the ethics there however here they don't appear to be and I can't find any information anywhere!
Hope someone can help.
I'm not really sure what you are referring too here, but basically disclose your name and the team you work for.
Enlightened authorities have pamphlets to hand to service users.
Shirack - do you know of any such Authorities? - I am sure that would be more helpful to'Hunny' and others.
Far better to say nothing than write nothing useful!
Rupert M: Shirack - do you know of any such Authorities? - I am sure that would be more helpful to'Hunny' and others. Far better to say nothing than write nothing useful!
With all due respect, if you're not sure what was being asked you didn't have to answer...I think you'd need to reveal slightly more than your name and team!
Self disclosure would be revealing personal information about yourself - however it can be problematic and can be seen as bartering, a potentially unfair exchange of info "you show me yours and I'll show you mine.."- which as we know clients through our professional role, rather than via friendship networks- and can be tricky to navigate.
However sometimes it can be useful - shared experiences of pregnancy (for example) to reasssure can be helpful, but again can be risky as social workers may be seen as 'knowing'; it can also show empathy, competence and trust in the working relationship shared.
Whilst there are times when self disclosure can be helpful you always need to think about the impact of any disclosure/ statement you make, the impact on the client/ your working relationship with them, whether you have breached any ethical matters etc.
As ever info needs to be recorded, perhaps guidance sought from other colleagues?
I'm not sure if there is explicit guidance, sorry to be vague,but some of the GSCC codes of practice may be helpful as an overview.
try putting Self disclosure in Google, or other search engines, suspect you will directed to academic articles/ research that you may find helpful
I'm a Canadian trained Social Worker, have work in the UK for a number of years. You are best adhering to the American ethical guidelines for disclosure and if ever unsure, simply err on the side of caution and withhold, then bring specific situations to your team/manager for feedback and further guidance.
There is a code of conduct distributed by the GCSS, should be online. If you feel it necessary, I would also contact the GCSS and/or BASW for guidance if other efforts have not been helpful.
S.