10a Ecological approach

This podcast summarises our approach to series 1 and 2. We started with the importance of integrity and then took an ecological approach to consider ourselves, our relationships and our context. We discuss the importance of biology, behaviour and the environment in social work; and we look at how our approaches to attachment, emotional regulation and competence affect us.

7b Social control

In this podcast we start to look at the conflicts at the heart of the social work role. How do we respond to influences – our own and society’s – that push us into controlling rather than helping? How do we use our power well?

5a Trust in social work

This podcast explores how we build trust in us as social workers by being open about our expertise and by using the best evidence available. We discuss legitimacy, empowerment and knowledge exchange.

4b Social work regulation

In this podcast we think our way through the complex area of social work regulation – what is it for, who is it for, and how can it be helpful? We consider how the relationship between the social work profession, the regulator and government can work well, so that social work can develop and flourish for the benefit of people who need it.

2a Interagency social work

Social work is rarely the only agency involved in a child’s, adult’s or family’s life. In this podcast we start to look at how social workers can work well with other agencies. We consider how professional identities interact, and the expertise of social workers as ‘specialist generalists.’

1b Social work training

In the second podcast of series 2, we have a reflective conversation about social work training. We look at what helps social workers to learn and develop, and conclude that the word ‘training’ should be banned. We should provide support for practitioners that is as high as our expectations.