BASW Cymru report – July/August 2012

Sometimes BASW Cymru, as the representative professional association for social work, has to point out the negative issues that affect social workers across Wales. However, we would also like people to know about the positive developments that take place as well. This month I am pleased to announce that BASW Cymru and the Association of Directors of Social Services Cymru have agreed to regular monthly meetings between ouselves and their representatives.    The aim of these meetings will be to share issues, developments and concerns about the social work profession in Wales in order to improve working conditions and, in turn, to provide the very best services to the most vulnerable people in our communities. Both organisations are committed to an ongoing dialogue to address concerns and make positive developments. We will include other key stakeholders when and where this is necessary.   New appointment Following a selection process, we are pleased to say that a recommendation for appointment to the mid/north Wales development worker position has been made. At the time of writing, we are unable to say who the successful applicant is, however, due to pending references.  The individual will have a small office based in Wrexham and will be contacting all six north Wales local authorities (Ynys, Mon/Anglesey, Gwynedd, Flintshire, Denbighshire, Wrexham & Conwy) and Ceredigion & Powys within the first few months. Anyone from these areas (whether working in a statutory sector organisation, third sector organisation or working independently) who wishes the new staff member to visit and talk with individuals or groups of members/non-members are encouraged to make contact.    Partnership  In addition to this monthly reminder about the need to consider nominating a colleague for the BASW Cymru Awards 2012, we are pleased to announce a three-year promotion and sponsorship partnership with COMPASS. It is intended that in future years, there will be even more categories in, and greater promotion of, this prestigious annual event.   Join our committee  Following recent advertisements for a new BASW Cymru Committee member, I hope that we will have appointed someone by the time you read this. Please visit basw.co.uk/ countries/wales for further details.   Awards  This year the award ceremony will be held at The Oriel Gallery at The Senedd, Cardiff Bay, on 2 October 2012. The closing date for nominations is Wednesday 29 August. The categories are: The Practice Teacher Award, The Innovative Social Work Award and The Spirit of Social Work Award. The event, now in its third year, promises to be the biggest and best yet. Please remember, these awards are not restricted to BASW members and are open to all social workers in Wales.    University visits  We are in the process of finalising the dates of our visits to all the universities in Wales. This is the first time that this has happened for a number of years. Although our aim will be to meet all first year students, we would be happy to meet with second or third year students as well, if this is requested of us. We are also intending to promote the opportunity for a student to join the BASW Cymru Committee. Anyone interested will need to contact us during the visits so that we can provide further information. If there are a number of interested students, there will be a selection process. It would be fantastic to have student links between BASW Cymru and every university in Wales.