BASW takes up formal role in UK Covid Inquiry

BASW has gained core participant status for Module 6 on Adult Social Care and Module 8 on Children and Young People.

Core participant status allows BASW to suggest questions, make opening and closing statements, and recommendations to the inquiry with a focus on social work specific issues. 

Taking place over a number of years and split into various modules examining specific aspects of the pandemic, the UK Covid-19 Inquiry is the independent inquiry into the response to and impact of the Covid-19 pandemic across the UK. Modules six and eight are expected to take place in 2025.

The inquiry aims to learn the lessons of Covid-19 so that the UK is better prepared for any future pandemics. It covers the whole of the UK, although Scotland is also carrying out its own, separate inquiry.

Responding to the announcement, BASW Chief Executive Dr Ruth Allen commented:

“We look forward to engaging with the inquiry’s detailed work on behalf of the social work profession and our input will be rooted in our professional perspectives and in what we have heard directly from social workers, people receiving care and support and their families since 2020. 

“We would also encourage our members across the UK to share your reflections and insights with the inquiry directly on as many modules as possible to help inform their understanding, learnings and final recommendations.”

Every Story Matters

To ensure that the Inquiry is as well informed as possible about the pandemic's impact on the UK population, it has set up a listening exercise called Every Story Matters. This is an opportunity for all those currently aged 18 and over to share their experiences with the Inquiry.

The Inquiry is encouraging as many people as possible to share responses in relation to Module 8 on children and young people by 10 December. Everyone can continue to share experiences until summer 2026 to inform other upcoming modules. 

All evidence gathered will be collated, analysed and fed into their investigations through summary reports. Whatever information you choose to share will be protected in line with legal requirements, which means any details that could identify you will be removed before analysis and publication. 

The inquiry understands that sharing your experience may be difficult so have support services in place, including the option for self-referral to their emotional support partner, Hestia. Please see their website for more information.