The Coronavirus Act 2020 is now law in Wales

BASW Cymru urges Welsh Government to make available the guidance that social workers need to fulfil their statutory functions, including information on how they receive training in understanding the changes.

As of the 1st April, the Coronavirus Act 2020 is now law in Wales, with most of the provisions immediately in force. BASW Cymru law group, with the guidance of Professor Luke Clements, have written an analysis on the implications for the Coronavirus Act and how it impacts on the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014.

The Coronavirus Act will disapply or modify key statutory duties, in relation to assessing and meeting needs, as they apply to adults and adult carers. At this time, there does not appear to be any guidance in how social workers will understand, apply the changes and practice within the new statutory regime – unlike the situation in England, where guidance has been published.

Social workers and those they support, desperately need clarity and clear practice guidance, at a time of unprecedented uncertainty. BASW Cymru urges Welsh Government to make available the guidance that social workers need to fulfil their statutory functions, including information on how they receive training in understanding the changes.

Allison Hulmes

National Director, BASW Cymru