Strengthening protections for social workers
As part of our campaign with SWU to improve working conditions for social workers, we want to hear about your experiences of assault or abuse at work.
All social workers should be able to go to work each day knowing they can carry out their duties safely, respectfully and without fear. Sadly, we know that this is not always the case, and with your help we want to change that through appropriate and meaningful action.
It is incumbent on us, as social work’s professional body, to work with trade unions, national regulators and social work leadership across the UK to help strengthen protections for professionals, improve staffing levels to reduce risk, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of abuse.
By completing our survey, you can help us to better understand the challenges you’re facing, the impact it has on you personally and professionally, and what support, if any, has been provided to you. We also want to hear your ideas and suggestions for improvements you would like to see being made.
All of the questions are optional so only share what you are comfortable with. All responses will be anonymised and data collected in line with our Privacy Policy.
Support Available
During our Big Conversation, some social workers were already raising the alarm with us on risks to online safety and the need to be more vigilant in digital spaces. On the back of this, we produced guidance to keep our members protected online.
Other forms of support for anyone affected by the issues raised in this survey are provided below:
- BASW/SWU Advice and Representation Service (If you are a BASW/SWU member)
- BASW Professional Support Service (available to all social workers in Scotland and BASW members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
- ACAS - https://www.acas.org.uk/
- Mind - https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/abuse/
