BASW calls for social work funds to be protected…

7th October 2010

BASW have called for funding for social work to be ringfenced, so that child protection services are not overwhelmed.  Their recent survey illustrates the pressure and constraints placed on social workers.

The survey inlcuded the following key findings:

• 70% of respondents admitted having been unable to protect a child because of the constraints of their job.
• 95% said that the increased pressure meant children’s health and safety was at risk.
• 45% had taken time off work as a result of emotional or mental instability.
• Almost 85% said public criticism of social work had stopped potential new recruits entering the profession.

This follows Liquid Personnel’s recent survey, where 40% of social workers said their caseload was unmanageable.  At the time, we highlighted the need to address excessive caseloads, and to ensure that sufficient funds are provided for social work teams, so that children’s services do not become overwhelmed.

For more information on our survey, please contact us directly.