NIASW Welcomes Publication of Health Minister's Vision for Health and Social Care

The Northern Ireland Association of Social Workers (NIASW) welcomes today’s publication of the Health Minister’s vision for delivering Health and Social Care.

 The Minister’s vision, Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together, was informed by the findings of Professor Raphael Bengoa’s review of Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland. Speaking following the publication of the vision, NIASW Chair, Marcella Leonard said: “NIASW members are pleased the Minister has recognised the vital role played by social workers in improving outcomes in the lives of people throughout society. We are encouraged that Minister O’Neill has responded to Professor Bengoa’s report by demonstrating her commitment to the delivery of an integrated health and social care system in which social workers work in partnership with colleagues in the health professions to maximize wellbeing”.

 Ms Leonard concluded by saying: “In outworking the Minister’s vision for health and social care there will be challenges in the months and years to come. However, developing innovative solutions is central to the social work profession and we look forward to working with colleagues in the health professions and the Department of Health to play our role in delivering the Minister’s vision.”