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West London Social Work Project. Andrew Christie Project Lead Director of Children’s Services Hammersmith & Fulham Council. The Scale of the Problem. Mismatch of expectations about the social work degree Highest vacancy rates in assessment and child protection services
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West London Social Work Project Andrew Christie Project Lead Director of Children’s Services Hammersmith & Fulham Council
The Scale of the Problem Mismatch of expectations about the social work degree Highest vacancy rates in assessment and child protection services Specific skill gaps : analytical thinking and report writing; working authoritatively with families The staff aren’t ‘working in the borough next door where they pay more’ - they’re not there
Workforce Statistics • 960 Social Workers & 160 Team Managers • 38% agency staff (Referral & Assessment, CP and CiN teams) • ¼ Team Managers qualified Overseas • 60% Senior Social workers have been in post for less than 2 years • 38% Social Workers have been qualified for less than 2 years
Our Solutions Recruitment and Retention Frontline Child Protection Services Partnership With HEIs Leadership and Frontline mangers NQSW Career Pathways Enabling the Social Work Role
What Worked? • Evaluation is just starting, but looks promising • Pre-existing network of ADs and their continuing commitment throughout the project • The strength of partnership and its experience of regional solutions • Funding from CWDC and engagement with DfE • Dedicated project team and consultant support