Comment on SWE report

Commenting on University of Greenwich report on social work education and training, ADCS President Charlotte Ramsden said:

“This latest report commissioned by Social Work England on education and training provides valuable insights into the experiences of social work students and newly qualified social workers (NQSW) during what has been a turbulent time to join the profession. The report raises important issues such as the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion and the impact of Covid-19 on new graduates. The whole workforce has been under immense pressure since the outbreak of the pandemic and supporting their health and wellbeing is a priority for all employers.

“It is important that social workers entering the profession are able to develop practice in their first year in employment and LAs have adapted to meet their needs, such as providing additional support and time to mitigate any lost learning during successive lockdowns. As the report highlights, this has been an incredibly challenging time for students and NQSWs with many not seeing colleagues face to face, however, it has also allowed some to develop new skills such as problem solving or IT literacy. LAs will continue to adapt as necessary, putting in place measures to help with the development and wellbeing of those entering the workforce.”

ENDS

The Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS) Ltd is the professional leadership association for Directors of Children’s Services and their senior management teams in England.

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