Social workers of Europe unite in Edinburgh for unique event

The biggest event of the year in the social work calendar will take place from 6-9 September, when hundreds of social workers from all over Europe gather in Edinburgh.

The British Association of Social Workers has organised the International Federation of Social Workers’ European Conference and Social Services Expo as a major professional development opportunity for practitioners to give a European perspective to some of the most pressing issues affecting individuals and communities. 

Over the course of three days, social workers will share experiences and lessons learned from front line practice. Through more than 70 workshops, seminars and keynote speeches delegates from 40 countries will explore themes such as the movement of people, austerity, integrating health and social care and privatisation.

As well as a unique learning opportunity, the conference will also give practitioners working in some of the most challenging roles in society a chance to socialise, let their hair down and forge new links.

BASW Chief Executive Officer Bridget Robb is urging as many people as possible to join the event. "It is amazing to be in a room with so many social workers from across Europe and hear about the work they are doing. It is so easy to think our issues are unique to our country, but colleagues across Europe – and indeed globally – are often wrestling with the same issues. We need to be better at recognising the similarities and learning from each other."

Note to Editors

BASW is the leading professional association for social workers in the UK, having over 18,000 members and growing rapidly. BASW has recently been identified by the College of Social Work to run some of their key functions, including their continuing professional development work. BASW sees this conference as a major contribution to that commitment.

The IFSW European Conference and Social Services Expo will be the largest international social work event in 2015 with delegates from over 40 countries attending and an expected 500 visitors to the two-day Expo being held on the 7 and 8 September.

The event takes place at the world class Edinburgh International Conference Centre and includes an exhibition and films.

For more information click here