Comment: Review of the Social Work Evidence Template 2020

Sara Tough, Chair of the ADCS Families, Communities and Young People Policy Committee said:

“The Social Work Evidence Template (SWET) was developed jointly by ADCS and Cafcass and was introduced in 2014 and subsequently reviewed in 2016. The SWET aims to support social workers to provide clear analysis to courts when submitting evidence to support an application for a care or supervision order. It was originally written for and in consultation with social workers and we are pleased that the template and the associated training materials are being used by many local authorities today. The Public Law Working Group has recommended a review of the SWET, and the creation of a shorter template for use in urgent hearings, and in recent weeks a small group of representatives from local authorities, Cafcass and the judiciary have been working on this. The review has suggested a number of changes to both the order and content of the template to enable it to flow more logically and respond better to the changing needs of courts. It has also suggested updated guidance which reflects the need to avoid repetition of evidence and take into account current case law. ADCS members are committed to supporting and improving social work practice, so a review of the template feels timely. We would welcome any feedback or suggestions for further improvements before the deadline on Friday 18 September so that together we can make a positive difference to the lives of vulnerable children.”

ENDS

---

---