Welsh social work profession needs overhaul

The social work profession in Wales should be completely
re-launched, according to a long-awaited report published today,
writes Clare Jerrom.

Led by the Association of Directors of Social Services Cymru,
the multi-agency report suggests the profession is overhauled with
improved pay for social workers, improved management of front-line
staff and increased practice learning opportunities.

“Our report is the result of research analysis and debate
which included contributions from all 22 local authorities, over
1,000 social workers and representatives of service users and
carers,” said Tony Garthwaite, ADSS Cymru spokesperson on
human resources and workforce issues.

The report suggests:-

• Re-launching the social work profession including
maximising the impact of registration requirements

• Improving social workers’ pay

• Improving management support to social workers

• A new approach to recruitment and retention based on
collaboration rather than competition

The ADSS Cymru also recommends social workers accept their
personal responsibility to perform as true professionals and
changes to the contribution of regulators and inspectors to the
cause, effects and solutions to problems of staff shortages.

Calling for sufficient funding to implement the changes
required, Garthwaite said: “We now call upon all those staff
involved in promoting the wellbeing of service users, carers and
staff to consider how best they can respond to the challenges
placed before them.”

“They will need a short time to reflect on our messages
but the action which must follow is urgently needed,” he
concluded.

Report from www.allwalesunit.gov.uk/garthwaitereport