BASW NI host social workers from around the world

The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) Northern Ireland has hosted a delegation of ninety social workers, from across the globe, who travelled to Belfast to learn from the experiences of their counterparts in Northern Ireland.

The group, which is attending the Social Work, Education and Social Development 2018 conference in Dublin, visited the WAVE Trauma centre, Parliament Buildings, and attended an exhibition of social work in Belfast City Hall, hosted by Lord Mayor Cllr Deirdre Hargey.

Speaking following the field trip, BASW Northern Ireland Country Manager, Carolyn Ewart said: “We are delighted that colleagues from across the world have shown such an interest in exploring the unique experiences of our social workers, both now, and during Northern Ireland’s troubled past.

“As with any meaningful engagement, we as hosts have benefited as much as our visitors. The insights shared by colleagues from countries including Singapore, New Zealand, South Africa, Taiwan and the USA, about how they provide support to some of the most vulnerable people in their societies, has proven incredibly helpful to BASW Northern Ireland members.”     

Speaking about the event at Belfast City Hall, Lord Mayor Councillor Deirdre Hargey said: “I am very pleased to welcome the international social work delegation to Belfast. As a Council we are aware of the vital contribution made by social workers in improving the life opportunities for many of our citizens. As is the case with many public services, learning from one another is a tremendously useful way of ensuring the people of Belfast, and those living further afield, receive high quality social work services at often difficult time in their lives.”

Ms Ewart finished by saying “Our field trip, along with several others throughout Ireland, marks the beginning of an incredibly exciting conference to be held over the next four days in Dublin, with keynote speakers including former President of Ireland Mary Robinson. I look forward to a continued sharing of views and experiences, which will ultimately benefit the people we support, through improvements and innovations in social work services.”