Mark Whitehead 02 August 2024

Remote working forcing us out of the profession, say social workers

Remote working forcing us out of the profession, say social workers image
Image: DimaBerlin/shuttersock.com

Social workers are increasingly saying the requirement to work remotely is one of the main reasons for wanting to leave the profession, according to new research.

A study by Bournemouth University found the closure of offices to save money had led to social workers working remotely feeling isolated and increased difficulties in contacting colleagues or managers for support.

The report's lead author Dr Andy Pulman said remote working and hotdesking had become increasingly commonplace in a number of organisations including local authorities

He said austerity measures since 2014 and changes in working practices since the COVID-19 pandemic had led to the closure of many local offices.

A particular area of concern amongst participants was learning and development for people joining the workforce.

Inconsistent induction approaches and new staff finding it more difficult to link up and learn from more experienced colleagues were given as problems that had increased through hybrid working within some teams.

Dr Pulman added: “Because of the emotionally demanding nature of their work, newly qualified social workers need a supportive, team environment which can be hard to create in virtual environments.

'During this study we heard about a lack of mentorship amongst some new entrants who might be left to fend for themselves after joining.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Major Works

Westminster City Council
Up to £105,000 per annum
Build a Fairer Westminster, One Home at a Time City of Westminster, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Westminster City Council

Chief of Asset Strategy and Major Works

Westminster City Council
Up to £105,000 per annum
Shape the Future of Housing in the Most Iconic City City of Westminster, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Westminster City Council

Finance Assistant - Debt Collection

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Finance Assistant - Debt CollectionFixed Term, Full Time£25,081 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Finance Assistant - Debt Collection

Essex County Council
Up to £25081.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Finance Assistant - Debt CollectionPermanent, Full Time£25,081 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Front of House Officer

Durham County Council
£24,790 to £25,992 p.a pro rata Grade 4
We have the following permanent opportunities available to join our team at GALA Durham.   X2 posts both at 24 hpw each WHAT IS INVOLVED?   You will Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner

Partner Content

Circular highways is a necessity not an aspiration – and it’s within our grasp

Shell is helping power the journey towards a circular paving industry with Shell Bitumen LT R, a new product for roads that uses plastics destined for landfill as part of the additives to make the bitumen.

Support from Effective Energy Group for Local Authorities to Deliver £430m Sustainable Warmth Funded Energy Efficiency Projects

Effective Energy Group is now offering its support to the 40 Local Authorities who have received a share of the £430m to deliver their projects on the ground by surveying properties and installing measures.

Pay.UK – the next step in Bacs’ evolution

Dougie Belmore explains how one of the main interfaces between you and Bacs is about to change.