BASW England Responds to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report

The UK Government has responded to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report

BASW England welcomes the government’s recognition of social workers as key workers in emergency planning as part of their recommendations in response to Phase 2 of the Grenfell Inquiry Report.

Recommendation 53 explicitly acknowledges the role of social workers in disaster response, reinforcing the importance of their expertise in safeguarding and supporting people and communities during crises.

BASW has consistently highlighted the vital contribution of social workers as key workers, including in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS). Our joint statement with ADASS outlines the critical role of social workers and Directors of Adult Social Services (DASS) in disaster recovery, emphasising the need for clear guidance and adequate resourcing.

We look forward to learning more about the government’s plans to ensure local authorities are properly resourced to deliver on this commitment. Adequate funding and investment will be essential to ensure social workers can effectively fulfil their responsibilities as key workers, with the necessary guidance, training, and workforce capacity in place.

Social Work in Disasters

BASW England looks to raise awareness, but also formalise, the important role social workers play in disaster recovery