Social care, social work and the law

The legal implications surrounding social work are varied and intricate. Stewart Vernon defines and highlights the implications of training and the punitive aspects of the law.

Social workers and the law

Three practitioners discuss detailed aspects of the law when working with children, including public and private law, children’s rights and independent services such as Childline.

Children and the law

These two interviews investigate both general and specific aspects of approaches to race and ethnicity, including policy from the Racial Equality Commission and the reality of working in the system.

Race and rights

What happens when parents are treated unfairly by the Social Services? Sue Amphlett, who experienced such treatment, talks frankly about her group and how parents can fight unfair decisions.

Parents against injustice

Penelope Welbourne was a social worker for ten years before becoming a lecturer. She describes her experiences, key principles of the work, and offers invaluable advice to students and practitioners alike.

Experiences of social work

The issue of representation is key in all social work services. Two key aspects are highlighted here: the representation of children’s wishes and presenting in court.

Independent social work service

Ruth Hayman spent many years living in care and foster homes. She talks about her experiences, as well as problems and the ways previous users can improve the current system.

Life after care

Divorce can be a traumatic time for children and parents alike. Mediation services offer independent, unbiased communication that can help ease relationships and ensure the welfare of all parties.

Mediation services

The schools system and Social Services are often inexorably linked. Fiona Wraith, and education welfare officer, highlights how schools can help and uncover young people in need.

Welfare in education

These discussions examine the rights and lives of older people, firstly by looking at the work of rights group Age Concern, secondly by spotlighting the disturbing prevalence of elder abuse.

Working with older people

How are the voices of vulnerable adults heard and responded to? Workers in community programmes and support groups illustrate the importance of ensuring under-represented adults are listened to and respected.

Voices for vulnerable adults

Jeanette Henderson is an approved social worker. Describing aspects of her work, particularly the experiences of appearing in court, she also dispenses invaluable and insightful advice.

The role of the approved social worker

Mark Mullins, a barrister, offers his unique viewpoint on the interaction of social workers with the court system. He defines the different types of proceedings, along with limitations and working with families.

Social care, social work and the law - Audio

Social care, social work and the law - Audio

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