Press Release

GSCC comments on new proposals aimed at developing social workers

10/04/2008

Social workers are set to benefit from a new package of proposals unveiled by the Government today aimed at enhancing the capacity and skills of the profession.

It was announced today at a national event for Directors of Children’s Services that nearly £73 million will be invested over the next three years into a range of activity, centred on the development of social workers working with children and families.

The General Social Care Council (GSCC) and the CWDC will be working with the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) on the proposals.

Mike Wardle, Chief Executive of the General Social Care Council (GSCC), commented:

“We welcome the government’s investment in and commitment to social work, which recognises the centrality of good social work to enhancing the well being of children and families.

Many of the issues that these proposals seek to address are common to all social workers, whether they work with children or adults. The Department of Health are working on their own strategy for the adult workforce and we hope to see a similar emphasis on social work in that development.

Effective links between social care services for children and adults are critical in getting services right for children, whose welfare often depends on the care and concern that adults in their lives provide. It is also crucial that the different professions working with children are integrated so that the welfare of the child is at the centre.

The recommendations address some of the most pressing issues facing the social work profession and we look forward to working the Government and others in taking these proposals forward.”