MHO SW: What does the future hold?

At our annual MHO study day we held a workshop on the future of the profession which raised many issues that needed further exploration and work. There is a shared concern, but also a shared commitment between relevant partners for a constructive way forward.

The Chief SW Adviser to the Scottish Government commissioned the SSSC to investigate further which we have supported, and this included speaking to some members of our MHO Forum. There will be more work and we hope to involve your voices as practitioners. It can become an often heard cliché; however you really are the true ‘experts’, so we will be in touch soon with the forum and hope some of you can become actively involved.

SASW is also very concerned to learn from the Mental Welfare Commission that funding for the MHO Newsletter has been withdrawn. There are also huge questions about the future of the Annual MHO Study Day as funding may no longer be provided. We must ensure this unique and vital social work role is continued by providing support, training, and updated CPD opportunities that are fit for purpose.

We are talking to others who are concerned, and welcome any input. Please contact Trisha Hall at the SASW office on 0131 221 9445 or t.hall@basw.co.uk