SASW meets with Dr Sandesh Gulhane, MSP

This week, SASW National Director, Alison Bavidge met with Scottish Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Dr Sandesh Gulhane MSP to discuss ways the social work profession should be better supported.

Dr Gulhane previously spoke in favour of social work student bursaries and highlighted the need for pay uplifts and clear career progression routes across the board in social services in an evidence session of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee.

Alison explained that regardless of what stage the National Care Service Bill is at in the legislative process, SASW’s focus and priority continues to be to advocate for a social work profession that can practice early intervention and build strong links and relationships with the communities they are in. This cannot be achieved without a stable, supported workforce that has access to clear career pathways, training, development and real autonomy.

She also highlighted the positive impact of an early intervention-based social work service and highlighted the ongoing work around the National Social Work Agency.

Dr Gulhane recognised the recruitment and retention difficulties within the profession, and shared the view that much of this cannot wait until the establishment of a National Care Service. He agreed to work with SASW to gather information and continue to advocate for the needs of the social work profession in Scotland. We will keep Dr Gulhane and his team informed of our member’s views and are committed to working with all MSPs to make changes that benefit social workers.

Our thanks to Dr Gulhane for taking the time to meet with us and his continued commitment to work with SASW on many of our campaign areas.