British social workers 'are being spread too thin'

PA's Local Government expert, Kate Jones, comments: "The issue of overburdened social workers is not new. Indeed it was being debated and lamented when I was a social worker more than ten years ago. The extent to which the causes of the problem remain the same is perhaps more of a moot point. Certainly today the level of bureaucracy, form-filling and box-ticking is a profound source of frustration and low morale to many social work practitioners. Furthermore, the demographic demands on local authorities and the challenges inherent in recruiting and retaining the right people in the profession are having an increasing impact on the number of cases an individual is required to manage. In a context of increasing budget constraints these challenges are perceived to be even more overwhelming.

"However, the current economic climate and the indisputable imperative to reduce cost could actually provide the catalyst for much needed sector reform in line with the Social Work Taskforce’s thinking. Such an imperative demands that waste be stripped out of the system and that social work practitioners and managers be refocused on client needs. Were this to be achieved, the quality of outcome for vulnerable clients might finally be improved, and the morale of a dispirited profession given a much needed boost."

To speak to a consultant or to find out more, please contact us now.