Laura Sharman 20 March 2020

Social workers call for clarity on carrying out statutory duties

Social workers are concerned they will be unable to safeguard families and carry out their statutory duties in the face of mass isolation.

A survey of social workers by about the impact of coronavirus by BASW has found many warn that family abuse, neglect and domestic violence may increase with school closures.

They are calling for more information on the implications for registration if they are unable to meet duties, timescales or usual legal compliance during this crisis.

Social workers are also calling for greater clarity on protocols and resources to avoid putting themselves and service users at risk. They already report they are struggling to access hand sanitisers and personal protective equipment.

CEO of BASW, Dr Ruth Allen, said ‘Governments across the UK have been focused on healthcare. They now need to show equal commitment to social care and social workers. This is essential if social workers and social care colleagues are to work with health and other colleagues with the intensity needed to meet the challenges of COVID-19.

‘Social workers must be supported to safeguard people at particular risk of harm, isolation and neglect during this period and to protect rights and ethical practice in this emergency and for the long term.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Enforcement and Monitoring Officer (Planning Enforcement)

West Northamptonshire Council
£34,203 - £37,067
About the role West Northamptonshire Council is looking for a dedicated and proactive Planning Enforcement Officer to help drive forward its place-shaping agenda. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in ensuring the best developments are d Towcester
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

HGV & Municipal Vehicle Technician

Ribble Valley Borough Council
Scale 5 (scp 16-19) £29,572 to £31,067 per annum
The maintenance is undertaken in the Council’s vehicle workshop on the Salthill Industrial Estate, Clitheroe Clitheroe, Lancashire
Recuriter: Ribble Valley Borough Council

Moving into Adulthood Worker

West Northamptonshire Council
£39,190 - £41,797
About the role We recognise the challenges faced by young people and their families as they transition from children’s services into adult services, and are committed to ensuring that we have the right conversations with them at the right time to ensure Northampton
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Director of Transport

East Midlands Combined County Authority
£112,924
East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) is on a bold journey. East Midlands Region
Recuriter: East Midlands Combined County Authority

Director of Children’s Services (DCS)

Swindon Borough Council
£129,000
Be the DCS you always wanted to be. Swindon, Wiltshire
Recuriter: Swindon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner