The Public Image of Social Work

Social Work Survey – The Public Image of Social Work


Key Findings:

  • When asked how well they feel social workers in the UK are represented, 49% said ‘Quite Poorly’ and 36% said ‘Very Poorly’.
  • Our respondents were extremely passionate about the need for a strong public voice, with 85% saying it was “Very Important” for there to be more positivity about social work in the press.
  • We asked social workers which body or person should be responsible for standing up for professionals and representing their interests…
    • 42% said it should be BASW (The British Association of Social Workers)
    • 15% said this was the responsibility of the Government
    • 13% said a ‘Chief Social Worker’ (a new role which has been proposed)
    • 12% said the GSCC or HPC
    • 11% said the College of Social Work
  • When asked whether they would support the idea of a ‘Chief Social Worker’ for England, 48% said ‘yes’, 12% said ‘no’ and the remaining 40% said they were ‘unsure’.

These results show a strong need for positivity, but divided opinion over who should represent the profession. They also show confusion over the role of the GSCC and HPC, whose role is to act as regulators of social work practitioners, rather than acting as a professional body.

For more detail, click the link below:

Factsheet: Social Work Survey findings related to the Public Image of Social Work.

Liquid Personnel’s view of the results:

“We all recognise the need for more positivity in the profession, but it’s now time for affirmative action. Organisations such as BASW and the College of Social Work have a real opportunity to begin making a difference for social workers on the frontline.”

“Negative stories will always grab the headlines, and its frustrating that social work’s good news stories will rarely make the front page. However, changing the public perception of the profession is not just a PR exercise; it can only come from meaningful investment and reform.”

“At Liquid, we will continue to do our utmost to recognise social workers’ contributions, and to share positive stories about the profession.”

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