College of Social Work announces first two chairs, and could merge with BASW…

16th July 2010

This week has seen major steps forward in the development of the first ever national College of Social Work.  The British association of Social Workers (BASW) have put forward a proposal which could result in them merging with the College,  whilst the College itself has selected its first two chairs; a former director of social services and an experienced social work academic.

BASW have put forward a set of convergence plans which could result in them becoming fully incorporated into the College, working together to serve similar purposes.  There is also the possibility that if this full integration doesn’t take place, BASW will look to provide some of the College’s memebership services, including professional advice, guidance on training and professional development, and the publication of a Magazine. 

The College may also look to develop links with Unison, but that concept has been called into question by BASW.  They claim that it would result in a loss of independence, and issues being dominated by trade union interests. 

Meanwhile, the College have appointed Maurice Bates and Corinne May-Chahal as joint interim directors; they will start work on August 1st.  Bates was formerly interim director of children’s services at North East Lincolnshire Council, but also has experience in adults services, having been co-chair of the Association of Directors of Adult Services’ National Workforce Development Policy Committee. 

 May-Chahal is professor of applied social science and director of social work at Lancaster University.  She has over 30 years of experience in social work.  Both are registered social workers, a point which has been widely welcomed as the College will look to provide strong leadership, bringing focus and understanding to the profession.

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