Reclaim Social Work

In Hackney we understand that helping families is a complex and difficult task. We have implemented a new model for children’s social care to address the challenges that face social workers on a daily basis and in turn Reclaim Social Work.

At the centre of the model is the Social Work Unit which is lead by a consultant social worker supported by a social worker, a children's practitioner, a family therapist and a unit coordinator who together have the resources, support and time to meet the needs of Hackney’s families.

Reclaim Social work is not just a change of structure. It is a change in culture and we are beginning to see the benefits.

“On a practical level, there’s no room for drift. We’ve got different sets of eyes and different approaches within the unit to reach children and families that a single social worker might not be able to” Martin Purbrick, Consultant Social Worker

Our consultant social workers have more autonomy and authority to make decisions on a daily basis. They do not have to battle with the bureaucracy that many social workers deal with everyday. The unit shares a sense of ownership over the cases that they are working on. They can respond quickly and direct therapeutic and clinical involvement using evidence based methodologies means that they have the best chance of effecting positive change with families.

An independent evaluation has been commissioned to analyse the impact of Reclaiming Social Work so that the model achieves the optimum results for Hackney’s families.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a consultant social worker and want to find out how you can be part of Reclaiming Social Work.

• Read Fiona Brew’s first hand account of what is it like to be a Consultant Social Worker in Hackney
• Apply for jobs within the Children and Young People’s Service
• Spread the word about Reclaim Social Work by entering our photographic competition

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a consultant social worker and want to find out how you can be part of Reclaiming Social Work contact the Liz McCaffry on 020 8356 3798.

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Page updated: 15 May 2009