Black Lives Matter in the UK too but where is the voice of social work?

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Communities, Society, Viewpoint
Black Lives Matter peaceful protest in New York

Diana Katoto is a student at the University of Birmingham, studying a BA Social Work. She has a passion for social justice and prides herself on promoting human rights. The tragic death of George Floyd in the United States has prompted her to write this heartfelt and challenging blog. Diana tasks our social work profession …

Pandemics, processes and personal issues

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Addiction services, Coronavirus
Door opening

Most people in treatment for drug and alcohol use are being helped in community settings, staying at home and working with their treatment providers, who are supporting their ongoing care through the coronavirus pandemic. Karen Biggs is the Chief Executive of Phoenix Futures, a specialist substance misuse treatment charity. Whilst the advice for most of …

Lightbulbs, leadership and being true to yourself

Posted by: , and , Posted on: - Categories: Communities, Our profession, Viewpoint
lightbulb drawn in chalk on blackboard

For a uniquely personal take on matters of race, discrimination, unconscious bias and the many other issues thrown into sharp relief by recent events in the US, we are proud to present this excellent blog from Nadia Khan. Nadia is a registered social worker, AMHP and Interim Service Manager for Mental Health with Bradford Council …

Mental health social work's time is now

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: Mental health
Mark Trewin presents

Another Mental Health Awareness Week is almost over – its importance given added resonance by the way the coronavirus pandemic has affected the physical and mental wellbeing of each and every one of us. Of course, supporting people to maintain good mental health is a continuous and collaborative effort. Our colleague Mark Trewin, the Mental …

Reflections on faith and keeping safe

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: Care and support, Communities, Coronavirus
Mosque

Worshiping in a time of pandemic poses unique challenges, but our faith communities are finding ways to adapt and maintain connections. Likewise, our social workers of faith are taking the time to reflect on how their practice can dovetail with community traditions to maintain love, friendship and fellowship with those they serve and hold dear.

Virtual relations

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Coronavirus, Innovation
Video conference call. A screen with four participants observed by another.

Social distancing during the current pandemic is pushing social work practice online, but is it possible to maintain relational approaches through smartphones, tablets and laptops? Tanya Moore, Principal Social Worker at Hertfordshire Adult Care Services, believes 'hi tech' shouldn’t mean 'low connection' and asks us to consider how we can maintain sensitive and purposeful relationships …

Don't forget the people behind the figures

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Care and support, Our profession
Treeline reflection on a lake

Behind every statistic there is a person. Vanessa Hodge, Principal Social Worker for Adults at Somerset County Council, reflects on social work's role during the coronavirus pandemic as it continues to affect all our lives, not least those working in or being supported by community adult social care services.