We welcome the publication of the Care Inspectorate’s report on the review of social work governance and assurance across Scotland, particularly the acknowledgement of significant challenges in the sector in relation to recruitment and retention, financial pressures, and influence.
These findings confirm what has long been understood by the workforce and supports the findings from our Chief Social Work Officers Annual Survey 23-24 which detail increasing external pressures in stark contrast with unwavering internal pride and dedication of social workers.
We appreciate the report highlighting the commitment and professionalism of social workers across social work services, and the difference that visible social work leadership makes in integrated structures. This supports our understanding that balancing medical and social models is crucial for the holistic care of individuals.
With that being said, the need is clear for more focused action and sustained attention from the Scottish Government to tackle ongoing pressures in the sector that cannot be addressed without adequate investment, resourcing, and support, which is key to the sector fulfilling its vital role in our society. By prioritising sector support, a more sustainable future for social work is possible and will better serve individuals, families, and communities throughout Scotland.
The ongoing implementation of the Scottish Social Work Partnership offers significant opportunity to address the recruitment and retention crisis and provide structures for strengthening local and national leadership of the social work workforce, and we are committed to our role in this.
