Social Work Radio

How do you maintain a life outside of social work?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:00:27 +0100

On this week’s episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara ask a question many in the profession will recognise instantly: how do you maintain a life outside of social work when the job seems to take everything you have? From dark evenings that once gave cover for doing nothing, to abandoned hobbies, emotional depletion, and friendships reduced to tired messages and unrealised plans, they unpack the slow way social work can erode the parts of you that exist beyond the role.

Honest, funny and painfully relatable, this episode explores what happens when you bring your sharpest self to work and your emptiest self home, and why building a life beyond the job is not a luxury but part of surviving it.
Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Social workers talk about mental health every day, just never our own

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0100

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince Peart and Cara Davis take on a difficult truth in the profession: social workers talk about mental health every day, just rarely their own. Through Cara’s deeply personal account of living with an eating disorder while working in frontline practice, and Vince’s reflections on what that silence costs the workforce, the conversation explores stigma, disclosure, workplace culture, and the unspoken hierarchy of which mental health struggles feel “acceptable” to admit. It is an honest, challenging episode about vulnerability, recovery, and why social workers are not failing when they struggle, but revealing something profoundly human.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

When everything else changes, a brother or sister can still be your anchor

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0100

In this episode of Social Work Radio, our social work hosts Vince and Cara explore why sibling relationships can be a lifeline for children in care, and why the law’s new recognition of that bond matters so deeply. From the emotional reality of separation to the political battle that finally gave sibling contact stronger statutory footing, they unpack what this change could mean in practice, why it has taken so long, and what still needs to happen to make it real for the thousands of children still living apart from their brothers and sisters.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

A justice minister just said parental alienation has no scientific basis. Now what?

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara unpack the growing fallout after a justice minister said parental alienation has no scientific basis, asking what that means for family courts, social work practice, and the parents and children caught in the middle. From the long shadow of the 2020 Harm Panel to the role of unregulated experts and the damage caused when safeguarding concerns are reframed as manipulation, the episode explores how a concept with no recognised diagnostic standing became so influential, and whether this moment could finally shift the system back towards child safety.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Social Work Week 2026: It's all about AI

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In the latest episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara take on one of the biggest issues facing the profession right now: the growing role of AI in social work. From algorithmic risk scores and embedded decision-support tools to bias, transparency, consent, and the future of professional judgement, this episode explores what happens when technology starts shaping practice faster than many practitioners realise.

It is a sharp, timely conversation about safeguarding the relational core of social work in an increasingly automated world, and why Social Work Week 2026 should be a moment for the profession to lead the debate rather than simply react to it.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Debunking the common myths about social workers

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara take on some of the most persistent myths about social workers, from the damaging child-snatcher stereotype to the idea that social work is just a matter of having a kind heart. Together, they unpack the skill, scrutiny, and emotional weight the profession really involves, explore why so much of social work remains invisible to the public, and reflect on the quiet expertise needed to balance empathy with professional curiosity.
Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Do you need trauma to be a good social worker?

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara take on a question that quietly sits in the background of the profession: do you need trauma to be a good social worker? They explore why lived experience is often seen as a badge of credibility, the real role empathy plays in practice, and the risks that come when personal pain becomes an unspoken qualification for the job.

From the value of emotional literacy and supervision to the burnout risks of over-identification, the conversation unpacks what truly shapes effective practice - and why the profession needs a healthy mix of perspectives, not a competition over who has suffered the most.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

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Duration Neglect: aka “How can you not see this?”

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Vince and Cara unpack the idea of duration neglect - the psychological blind spot that helps explain why social workers can see years of cumulative harm in a chronology while families experience life crisis-by-crisis and believe they are coping. This episode explores the gap between professional “montage” thinking and lived real-time experience, the way chronic low-level harm becomes normalised, and why neglect and long-term adversity are so often minimised in both practice and systems

From practical implications for assessments and chronologies to a shift in tone from confrontation to curiosity, this is a thoughtful, reflective conversation about what it really means to ask: how can you not see this?

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Jeffrey Epstein isn't the whole story

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara unpack why Jeffrey Epstein isn’t the whole story. Moving beyond the fixation on famous names, they explore the wider networks of abuse, power and institutional failure that social workers recognise all too well. From the way harm is framed differently in wealthy circles and deprived communities, to how systems weigh risk when influence is involved, this conversation challenges listeners to look past spectacle and ask harder questions about safeguarding, accountabilit,y and whose voices get centred.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Does it really take a village to raise a child?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Does it really take a village to raise a child, or is that a phrase we repeat without ever taking seriously?

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara explore what the evidence says about how place, neighbourhood, and environment shape children’s lives, often as powerfully as parenting itself. Drawing on research and frontline experience, they reflect on how social work assessments can narrow responsibility onto parents, while wider factors like poverty, housing, and unsafe communities fade into the background.

The conversation asks what it would mean to genuinely take environment seriously in practice, and how social workers can show greater empathy for families parenting in conditions most of us would not accept for our own children.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Is it lonely at the top for social work managers?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Vince and Cara turn their attention to a question many social workers quietly wrestle with: is it lonely at the top? Drawing on lived experience from both sides of the desk, they explore how poor management harms staff, the emotional weight and isolation that can come with leadership roles, and why moving into management is not - and should not be - the default marker of success in social work. The conversation ranges from micromanagement and burnout to power, safety, and what social workers can reasonably demand from those leading them, offering a thoughtful and honest look at a part of the profession that is often misunderstood.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The Maria Coto bill and what it means for social worker safety

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode of Social Work Radio, out hosts Vince and Cara turn their attention to the Maria Coto bill and what it could mean for social worker safety. Reflecting on the murder of child protective services worker Maria Coto in New York in 2024, the conversation explores why lawmakers are pushing for new criminal offences for assaults and threats against social workers, whether tougher laws genuinely make practitioners safer, or whether they mainly offer reassurance after tragedy. Drawing on UK and international perspectives, Cara and Vince unpack the uncomfortable tension between legal protections, practical safety measures, and the realities of frontline work, from lone-working systems to staffing pressures and organisational culture.

Alongside the serious discussion, listeners should stay tuned for a lighter moment too - Cara has some wonderful news to share with Vince...

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

social work preview of 2026

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 10:28:25 +0000

In this episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara look ahead to what 2026 may hold for social work. Drawing on their experience from the past year, they explore the big themes likely to shape practice in the months ahead - from staffing pressures, cost of living impacts, and inspection changes, to political decisions, regulation, and the narratives surrounding the profession. Together, they reflect on how these forces may show up in everyday practice and what social workers are already beginning to feel on the ground.

The conversation also turns to technology, AI, and how digital tools may realistically affect the job in 2026, balancing the promise of time-saving support against concerns about control and surveillance. Cara and Vince share their personal hopes, fears, and boundaries for the year ahead, before offering a direct message to listeners as they step into 2026.

A social work review of 2025

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this end-of-year episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara look back on the stories that defined social work across 2025, reflecting on the moments that sparked debate, concern and, at times, collective reflection within the profession. From viral social media controversies and high-profile safeguarding cases to regulatory decisions, workforce pressures, and questions of public trust, the episode revisits the headlines that shaped conversations month-by-month.

Create by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Welcome to the Social Work Radio Christmas party!

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this festive end-of-year episode, our hosts Vince and Cara invite listeners to the Social Work Radio Christmas party - a warm, reflective, and gently playful conversation designed especially for a profession that rarely gets to switch off. From catching up on the week and sharing listener messages, to unpacking the social work themes hidden inside classic Christmas films, the pair explore resilience, burnout, and the quiet work of holding things together. They reflect on their most wholesome moments of 2025, talk honestly about boundaries and exhaustion at Christmas, and close with heartfelt messages to social workers everywhere - especially those on duty, on call, or running on empty - reminding them that being “enough” doesn’t mean fixing everything, and that rest, kindness, and community matter too.

Merry Christmas social workers!

The killing of hospital social worker Alberto Rangel

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000

A sensitive and reflective episode in which Cara and Vince discuss the killing of hospital social worker Alberto Rangel in San Francisco last week, and the questions it has prompted across the profession about safety at work. Drawing on reporting, tributes from colleagues, and their own frontline experience, they explore why many practitioners have said: “this could have been any one of us” and look at the wider conversation now taking place about protecting social workers.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Teens turning to TikTok therapy

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Teens are turning to TikTok for therapy - and many trust what they find there more than the services meant to support them. In this week’s episode, Vince and Cara dive into the rise of TikTok-driven self-diagnosis, from trauma and ADHD to “narcissistic parents,” and explore why the For You Page can feel more responsive, more comforting, and more human than CAMHS.

They unpack the risks, the misinformation, and what practitioners can do in practice - not by fighting the algorithm, but by working alongside it. A lively, honest conversation about trust, digital life, and what young people are really telling us.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Sara Sharif: What the serious case review tells us

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this week’s episode, Vince and Cara unpack the newly published Serious Case Review into the death of Sara Sharif, and what it really means for frontline social work. They break down the missed opportunities, the multi-agency drift, the blind spots around home education, and the “no one joined the dots” theme shaping public debate. A thoughtful, essential listen for anyone working in or alongside children’s services.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Social Work England: Can trust be rebuilt?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 10:24:15 +0000

n this week’s episode, Cara and Vince dive into the growing crisis of confidence surrounding Social Work England. With a major independent review now under way, they explore whether trust can truly be rebuilt after fee hikes, backlogs, and a near £1m underspend that has left the profession questioning its regulator’s direction. From cultural concerns to calls for meaningful reform, they ask what accountability should look like - and whether regulation can ever feel supportive again.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

More children in need, fewer needing Protection: What’s really going on?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Vince and Cara unpack new national figures showing rising numbers of children identified as “in need,” but fewer placed on child protection plans. Our hosts explore whether stretched services, higher thresholds, and workforce pressures are shaping how risk is managed on the frontline. Is early help keeping families safe, or masking hidden harm as demand continues to climb?

Join the conversation every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Domestic abuse is the everyday business of the family court

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0100

In this powerful episode, our hosts Vince and Cara dive into new findings revealing that domestic abuse is identified in nearly nine out of ten family court cases - yet still too often treated as a side issue. They unpack how the system’s pro-contact culture can place victims at risk, the structural barriers that keep courts from prioritising safety, and the emotional toll this takes on social workers. With personal reflections, examples of good practice, and a call for reform, this is a must-listen for anyone working in or alongside the family justice system.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Caring about the world without losing your mind

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our hosts Cara and Vince explore how to stay compassionate and engaged in a world that feels heavier than ever.

From doomscrolling and online outrage to activism fatigue and the myth of “doing it all,” they ask how social workers can keep caring without burning out. Cara reflects on her recent article, while Vince unpacks the pressure to be publicly political and the toll of constant bad news. Together, they share practical ways to protect your peace, find perspective, and hold onto hope - even when everything feels overwhelming.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The reality of 'No Further Action'

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0100

In this week's episode, our social work hosts discuss the reality of NFA in practice - the point at which CPS or the police decide not to proceed due to 'insufficient evidence.'

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Social Vampires and Social Workers

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week's podcast, inspired by THIS story, sees our hosts explore the concept of social vampires - the people or dynamics that constantly take without giving, leaving us depleted. Vince and Cara examine how this relates to social work, from bureaucracy, and toxic workplace cultures, to overly demanding colleagues, and even unhealthy client dynamics.

Join the conversation every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Why are we all so sick?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week our hosts break down the numbers behind THIS story at www.mysocialworknews.com, reflecting on the CIPD findings, exploring factors such as the pandemic after-effects, cost of living crisis, NHS pressures, and changing working patterns, and examining workplace culture, increased stress, burnout, and lack of boundaries with remote/hybrid work.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Charlie Kirk

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week our hosts are talking about Charlie Kirk - reflecting on his views and on the profession’s responsibility to call out harmful rhetoric without endorsing harm, and talking about the circumstances of his death and the public shock.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Josh MacAlister: 7 priorities to follow in his new Children and Families role

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week our social work hosts, Vince and Cara, are talking about the news that Josh MacAlister has been appointed as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Education, taking on the role of children’s minister following Janet Daby’s departure in the government reshuffle.

Here are seven key changes they predict think will be coming...

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Why is someone working three jobs at the same time?

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week our hosts are exploring this news story, about a social worker convicted of fraud after it was discovered she was working three jobs at the same time. Vince and Cara discuss the wider context of the story, reflecting on the cost-of-living crisis, stagnant wages, and how side hustles and second jobs are becoming increasingly common in social work. Was this pure greed and dishonesty...or does context matter...?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Is DASH reliable?

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:34:59 +0100

This week our social work hosts are taking a closer look at DASH - Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Honour-based violence checklist - after it was revealed that 55 women were killed after being assessed as low risk under the police tool. Vince and Cara outline the system, examine the concerns, and debate whether reliance on tick-box assessments undermines professional judgement.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation.

Social work side hustles

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, inspired by THIS feature, our social work hosts are reflecting on the financial realities for social workers today, and discussing the benefits of side hustles - and how they can provide breathing space financially - without breaching professional boundaries. Want to know more...?

Created by social workers, for social workers, join the conversation every Friday morning

Social workers deserve 'a little treat'

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, inspired by THIS column at mysocialworknews.com, our host Cara reflects on her personal experiences of incorporating "little treats" into challenging workdays and their impact on motivation and wellbeing. Together, she and Vince discuss how small acts of self-kindness can transform the work experience and enhance productivity and emotional resilience.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Is Social Work England fit for purpose?

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, our social work hosts, Vince and Cara, discuss Social Work England's decision to increase registration fees despite overwhelming opposition, and examine reactions from frontline social workers.

What do YOU think? Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Psychological safety in social work

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our social work hosts delve into what psychological safety means in professional environments, explore how it enables better professional decision-making, and reflect on how it can improve employee wellbeing and reduce burnout. They also share personal insights and experiences.

Join the conversation every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

What's more important, money or happiness?

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our social work hosts reflect on what's more important - money or happiness - as they explore the dispute over market-rate pay increases for social workers at Brighton & Hove City Council, and the strike action taken in response.

They reflect on the significance of equitable pay in maintaining morale and job satisfaction among social workers, and debate how clear career pathways and development opportunities compare to immediate pay increases.

Join the conversation, every Friday.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Reform teenagers in charge of adult and children’s services

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Inspired by THIS news story, about the recent appointment of young Reform councillors Joseph Boam (22) and Charles Pugsley (19) at Leicestershire County Council, our hosts are discussing public and professional reactions.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Boomer parenting habits that would terrify social workers in 2025

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Inspired by THIS column, this week our hosts are exploring how parenting supervision and surveillance have dramatically changed in the past 40 years, discussing the freedom versus safety debate.

As they discuss examples from the past, and reflects on the social and cultural reasons behind these practices, and the shifts in social work's view of child welfare and protection, they consider what these practices suggest about changing attitudes toward child safety.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Social work on the cusp of radical change

Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Inspired by THIS article and THIS column, this week our hosts are exploring the idea of Artificial Intelligence in social work, highlighting potential benefits - such as reduced admin and streamlined processes - and exploring concerns - particularly regarding empathy, professional judgment, and ethical decision-making.

They also discuss changes to agency work, and the impact of shifting political landscapes on the profession. Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Changing the social work script

Fri, 23 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's show, our hosts provide an overview of Social Work England’s new 'Change the Script' campaign, highlighting the research findings about negative public perceptions of social workers, and the importance of changing the narrative. They discuss how negative media portrayals impact social workers, and reflect on why altering public perception is crucial for the profession's future. Join the conversation, every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Should we be more open to recruiting social workers with a criminal history?

Fri, 16 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

Inspired by this news story about Tommy Sheridan this week, our podcast hosts debate the specific factors influencing decisions about employing individuals with criminal convictions in sensitive professional roles.

They discuss potential risks, public trust, and safeguarding concerns, highlight the importance of rehabilitation, and explore how a balanced approach can be achieved, ensuring both protection of vulnerable individuals and fairness in employment opportunities.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

How social work makes your world a little brighter

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:00 +0100

On this week’s episode, our social work hosts reflect on how social work has deepened their empathy and compassion, and improved their personal relationships and interactions.

Created by social workers, for social workers

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Does being a social worker change your view of the world?

Fri, 02 May 2025 07:27:18 +0100

On this week’s episode, our hosts discuss how working in social work has shaped their views on social justice, inequalities, and systemic challenges. They reflect on how their personal views sometimes clash with those of friends, and share strategies for managing their emotional responses.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social worker, for social workers.

Sex and The Supreme Court

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 11:40:31 +0100

This week our hosts are taking a closer look at the recent Supreme Court ruling, summarising the key outcomes and its implications. Together, they examine how political parties are navigating this issue, the tensions it has created, and the implications of the ruling for social work practice - particularly around single-sex services and safeguarding issues.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Friend, friend, social worker friend...

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our hosts Vince and Cara are reflecting on two stories published at mysocialworknews.com this week: Is it appropriate to be friends with your manager? and My best friend at work is leaving for a new job, and it hurts worse than a break-up as they explore boundaries, the potential for conflict, and how friendships can enhance or complicate professional roles.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Five years on from lockdown: A social work retrospective

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, five years on from the pandemic, our hosts discuss their initial personal and professional reactions to the start of lockdown, recalling the early challenges and uncertainties - from remote working to increased safeguarding concerns.

Vince and Cara reflect on the lasting changes in practice introduced during the pandemic, including remote assessments and virtual meetings, and share the experiences of emotional strain, isolation, and resilience among social workers during this time. What are the key lessons, and how can we can better prepare for future crises?

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

How the 'Let Them' approach can make you a happier social worker

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts are exploring the theories behind Mel Robbins' "Let Them" approach, highlighting key insights from her new book, reflecting on the importance of emotional boundaries, and the challenge of accepting things beyond our control. As Vince and Cara explore their initial thoughts on "Let Them," and its relevance to social work practice, they share personal experiences from their own practice, and discusses practical steps to adopting the philosophy.

Created for social workers, by social workers. Join the conversation every Friday.

How to spring clean your personal and professional life

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:23:33 +0000

In this week's podcast, our hosts Vince and Cara, inspired by THIS article at mysocialworknews.com, discuss the importance of taking the time to spring clean your caseload, and declutter your digital life in order to blow the professional cobwebs away. This includes reflecting on the importance of recognising cases that need to be closed and how lingering cases can negatively impact workload management, as well as tackling overwhelming email inboxes, organising files, and maintaining digital archives.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Disbelief at social work caseload reductions

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's podcast, our hosts reflect on the recent statistics - which show that the average social worker caseload in the UK has fallen to the lowest in recorded history - considering frontline reactions to the news, and the credibility of the figures reported. Do these statistics align with the experiences of frontline social workers? Is a decline in agency social workers a cause for optimism, or concern? And both Vince and Cara share their strategies for improving conditions and reducing burnout and vacancies.

What do YOU think? Join the conversation, every Friday morning. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Another social work riot?

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week's episode is inspired by this article, after the MailOnline exclusively reported this week that a brawl on the streets of Gateshead last Tuesday was triggered by social workers attempting to remove children from a property in the area. Our hosts, Vince and Cara, share their thoughts on this latest riot, examine why social workers are frequently at the centre of these conflicts, and discuss how we can we better protect social workers from physical and emotional harm.

Join the discussion, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Social Work: Code Black

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

If hospitals can call a Code Black, why can’t social work?

On this week's episode, our hosts discuss how social work trauma doesn’t explodes - it erodes. What are the systemic failures and government inaction at the heart of the problem? Would a Code Black even work in social work?

Join the discussion, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The Social Work England fee increase

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week our hosts Vince and Cara, both social workers themselves as well as columnists for Social Work News, share their views - along with those of our readers - on the recent news that Social Work England has proposed raising its annual fee by 33% from September 2025.

Is the amount fair? Do you feel Social Work England is holding up their end of the deal? Join the conversation. And don't forget to take part in the consultation, and ensure your regulators know your thoughts.

Every Friday morning, created by social workers, for social workers.

Are too many children subject to social services intervention?

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week, inspired by THIS news article, our hosts are exploring how these numbers compare to past trends and whether they match what frontline social workers experience. As they discuss the scale of intervention, and the impact of poverty and early intervention cuts, they ask the question: Are we removing too many children from families?

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the discussion every Friday morning.

The appeal of the fictional 'bad boy'

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:41:03 +0000

This week our hosts discuss the draw to morally grey characters... can you relate...?

Created by social workers, for social workers. Tune in every Friday!

Abusing and exploiting your children for social media clout

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week our hosts are delving into the world of social media, examining a number of recent high profile cases that have seen social media influencers and family YouTubers come under scrutiny.

What are the safeguarding views? What about the issues surrounding child consent? Is there space for online monitoring?

Join the conversation, every Friday. Created by social workers, for social workers.

Naming and shaming social workers”

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week our hosts are discussing the appeal that is currently underway to allow the media to name the family court judges, social workers, and guardians involved in the care of Sara Sharif, ahead of her death.

Is there ever a need to publicly name social workers? What are the pros and cons of this transparent approach to proceedings? And how can social work professionals better engage with the media?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Elon Musk

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 10:09:23 +0000

This week our hosts are discussing Elon Musk's recent interest in CSA, along with the broader issues as a whole: Do we need another national enquiry into this issue? What do we think of the incoming mandatory reporting laws?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The January Blues

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000

On this week's show, our hosts discuss the phenomenon of the 'back to work' blues...

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the discussion, every Friday morning.

A social work review of 2024

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 12:00:43 +0000

This week our hosts are reviewing social work throughout 2024, working through the top news stories, features, and columns - as voted by you - at Social Work News from January to December.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Listen every Friday morning.

Sara Sharif

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week our hosts are discussing the tragic case of Sara Sharif - the social services interventions in the run-up to Sara's death, the media coverage of the trial - which saw her father and stepmother convicted of her murder - the need for a statutory inquiry, and what Sara's legacy may be for other children.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Listen every Friday morning.,

The Assisted Dying Bill

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts discuss their personal views on assisted dying, the arguments for and against, and the impact that the Bill may have on the profession.

Created for social workers, by social workers.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

MasterChef, McGregor, Men & Misogyny

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts draw on news articles published at Social Work News about Greg Wallace and Conor McGregor, and explore the role of men in social work and society, while asking themselves the question: What can we do to help provide men and boys with better role models?

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Should we allow profit in social work?

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In the same week the government announced a major overhaul of children's social care to tackle profiteering, our hosts discuss their thoughts on the proposed changes, their thoughts on profit in social care, and reflect on the expansion of Staying Close - and what it will mean.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

By social workers, for social workers.

The Social Worker of the Year Awards 2024

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Social Work Radio our hosts, Vince Peart and Cara Davis, chat all things Social Worker of the Year Awards. Don't miss it...=

Created for social workers, by social workers. Join the conversation, every Friday.

Trump triumphs: What does this mean for social workers?

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts discuss the historic US election result, as well as delving into the state of UK politics right now. How much do politics really matter to social workers? Is there a duty on social workers to be political? What shifts have politics caused to social workers during our time in the profession, and what impact have political changes had upon clients in our time as practitioners?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning with Social Work Radio - created by social workers, for social workers.

Dating as a social worker

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts discuss dating as a social worker - does being a social worker throw up additional complications when dating? Would you date a fellow social worker? Would you 'swipe right' on someone connected to a client? And if you're already in a relationship, does being a social worker affect it?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning with Social Work Radio - created by social workers, for social workers.

Will AI completely change the way we do social work?

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our hosts discuss the benefits of AI in social work, as well as the problems they feel it could cause. What are the concerns about the ethical and practical applications of AI, and do we risk some people getting left behind?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning with Social Work Radio - created by social workers, for social workers.

Could you be a social worker AND a foster carer?

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Could you be a foster carer? What are the rewards and challenges? And what unique skills do social workers bring to fostering?

This week on Social Work Radio, our host Vince chats with social worker Claire Nelson about how she combines her busy job with being a foster carer. Does being a social worker make her a better foster carer? What skills are interchangeable? And how does she find it working with social workers, when she's in her foster carer role?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

What’s going wrong with Social Work England?

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:28:29 +0100

On this week's episode, our hosts discuss their views on Social Work England as a regulator, the changes to CPD as announced this week, and what they think is next for the regulator.

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

How to find the perfect social work job for you

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by THIS article, our hosts explore how social workers can find their ideal role. What are the signs you've found the perfect social work job for you? How can you balance autonomy and support? And does burnout necessarily mean you're in the wrong job?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Expecting social workers to walk through water and not get wet...

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, our hosts ask, are social workers being asked to manage extreme emotional and professional demands without enough support?

Are social workers able to identify our breaking points?

What is the impact of emotional labour on social workers and our practice - and what needs to change?

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Is hybrid working helping or hindering social workers?

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by this recent article, our social work hosts discuss both the the benefits and potential downsides of hybrid working for social workers.

How does hybrid working impact team dynamics, peer support, and communication? How does it impact social work practice and clients? Has it created a gap in the social services delivered, or if it has led to innovation in approaches to client care?

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Ofsted

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 12:05:55 +0100

As Ofsted announced plans this week to eliminate single-word judgments from their evaluation framework for children’s social care, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss their experiences with Ofsted inspections to date, their reactions to the news of this "landmark overhaul," and their hopes for the future of inspections.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The 10 biggest stereotypes about social workers

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by this article, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss stereotypes in social work, examining portrayals in the media, TV, movies, and books. Is there anything harmful about these stereotypes? And do they each consider themselves to be 'typical' social workers?

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Can you ever really switch off from being a social worker?

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Where do we draw the line on being a social worker and being a person?

On this week's episode, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss whether being a social worker restricts your freedoms - online and in the real world?

How do we define ‘bringing the profession into disrepute?' Does being a social worker change the way you see the world? Are you more likely to intervene and involve yourself with members of the public? Should we be able to make a ‘citizens intervention’?

Join the conversation, every Friday morning.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The UK anti-immigration riots

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, our hosts Vince and Cara delve into the difficult subject of the recent riots that have impacted communities across the country for the past week.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The Leeds social work riot

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

* Please note: this episode was recorded earlier this week, before the judge ruled that the children involved in the case be returned to the care of extended family.

On this week's episode, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss how they felt watching the news of the riots in Leeds unfold this week, and their own experiences of working with people who’ve had their children removed. Where is the line between accepting the anger of grief and not allowing it to escalate? Can police presence inflame situations like this? How do the social workers managing this case now cope, and do events like this place additional scrutiny and threat on our entire profession?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The prison system is broken - how can we fix it?

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, inspired by this opinion column, Vince and Cara discuss their experiences of working with people in prison - the good, and the bad. They explore different prison systems around the world, and ask: how do you balance deferral with rehabilitation and reform?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

The rise of the far-right should terrify social workers

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, inspired by this opinion column, Vince and Cara discuss Trump, Reform, and the National Rally - and ask the question: has there ever been a scarier time, politically, in their lifetime? Do they see this issue going away? What will the Tories do now? And what is our duty as social workers here, in the face of all that is going on?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

It's a Labour win: what next for social workers?

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0100

What do we want to see from a Labour government? On this week's podcast, Vince and Cara discuss the results of yesterday's general election, and what they'd like to see from Labour, after 14 years of Tory rule. Join them as they break down the Labour manifesto, and discuss exactly what this new government may mean for social workers.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

How to find healthier coping strategies for social workers

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast - inspired by this article on mysocialworknews.com - our hosts Vince and Cara discuss healthy vs unhealthy coping strategies, the potential benefits and impacts of keeping stimulated, and whether there should be a duty of care from social work employers when it comes to dealing with the stress of the job.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Should we bring back the national service?

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss their take on PM Rishi Sunak's proposal to bring back national service. What are their issues with this? How do they think young people will react, and how would they have reacted when they were younger? And is there a better way to engage the young people of this country?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

How to give excellent supervision to social workers

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss whether they feel therapy is necessary for social workers, explore their own experiences with supervision - both as social workers and managers - and each share their top tips for giving and receiving quality supervision.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Is it time we all went back to the office?

Fri, 31 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's podcast, our hosts - and fellow social workers - Vince and Cara discuss how their working lives have changed since Covid, the pros and cons of the profession moving to hybrid working, examine the idea of an 'ideal' working pattern, and finally ask the question - is it time we all went back to the office?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Are YOU a social work workaholic?

Fri, 24 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Are you a social work workaholic?

This week our hosts, and fellow social workers, Vince and Cara, take the test to find out if they are a social work workaholic - will you play along at home?

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Working with children, but not wanting to have your own

Fri, 10 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Is there a stigma to being a children’s social worker without children?

This week our hosts, and fellow social workers, Vince and Cara, are exploring the impact that being a parent has on the work we do. And, inspired by THIS column published at mysocialworknews.com, Cara discusses what it's like for her to be a children's social worker who doesn't want to have children of her own.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Why you should always take a cup of tea if your client offers one

Fri, 03 May 2024 05:00:00 +0100

Do you accept a drink from your clients when you visit them in their home?

This week our hosts, and fellow social workers, Vince and Cara, explore the reasons you should always say yes, if you can. It may sound like a small issue, but - as we'll find out in the episode - this simple moment can set the scene for so much...

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Child stars and social workers

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

From Corey Feldman, and Judy Garland, to Lindsay Lohan, Macaulay Culkin, and Britney Spears, there is a long history of child stars succumbing to the pressure of the public eye. But what about child stars of the modern age - i.e. social media stars? Is there a duty on social workers to intervene with children who are in the public eye? Who determines what risk these children are at? And at what age are children truly able to consent to being shared with the world?

Join our hosts Vince and Cara for this week's episode of Social Work Radio, inspired by THIS article, published this week at www.mysocialworknews.com

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Cats, dogs, and social workers

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

How do social workers feel about working with pets in people’s homes? Have there been a lot of ‘hairy’ experiences in the line of duty, and is it fair for social workers to ask clients to take their pets out of the room? This week, following on from THIS Social Work Supervision column published this week at www.mysocialworknews.com, our hosts Vince and Cara discuss pets, home visits, and the effect this can have on your connection with a client.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Is it okay to cry about work?

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

This week, responding to this news story, published this week, our hosts Vince and Cara explore whether it's okay to cry at work, how often they've each done it, and break down the stigma of showing emotion in a social work office.

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join in the discussion, every Friday morning.

Spring cleaning for social workers

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0100

As we usher April in the door, it's time to discuss... spring cleaning for social workers! Are you a fan of the annual reset/out with the old, in with the new? Our hosts Vince and Cara share their top 10 tips for the ol' social work spring clean!

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join in the discussion, every Friday morning.

Terrible self-care ideas for social workers

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Let’s be honest, what toxic self-care have we previously indulged in? What genuinely helpful self-care support could our employers give us? And what self-care tips would you give your younger social work self? This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts Vince and Cara are exploring the topic of self-care - in all its glory! Join the discussion.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

A social worker's guide to making friends

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Does hardship, trauma, and shared pain bond us as friends? Have you made friends in social work, and what are the differences between your social work friends and your 'normal' friends? This week, host Vince is joined by a new face, social worker Cara Davis, to chat through friends and social work!

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Are you a perfectionist procrastinator?

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Are you a perfectionist, a procrastinator, or both?

Is it possible to be perfect in social work? How do we avoid procrastination at work? And how do we manage the unrealistic expectations of others? Explore the topic of perfectionist procrastinating with our Social Work Radio hosts!

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Social work stress (and how to reduce it)

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode of Social Work Radio, our hosts are tackling the topic of 'stress' - what are their own symptoms of work stress, what are their individual coping strategies, and where does the line come in terms of how much employers need to be helping?

To what extent do we simply have to accept that social work is stressful? And what are the tips we should all be bearing in mind?

Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.

Ethical dilemmas in social work

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

The biggest challenge of an ethical dilemma is that it does not offer an obvious solution that would comply with ethical norms.

Throughout the history of humanity, people have faced such dilemmas and, in this week's episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Tilly explore the concept of ethical dilemmas in social work, laying out examples each have encountered in the workplace. They also work their way through some popular ethical dilemmas, including The Trolley Problem, The Lying Doctor, and The Organ Donation Dilemma. Play along at home and figure out whether or not your own ethics align with our hosts.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Ten ways to improve social work retention

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our Social Work Radio hosts explore why current retention rates in social work - across both children's and adults - are so poor, and each propose five ways we could see them improve.

Join the discussion every Friday. Created FOR social workers, BY social workers.

What Myers-Briggs personality types make the best social workers?

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:50:08 +0000

This week on Social Work Radio, Vince puts co-host Tilly through her paces as she undertakes the Myers-Briggs personality test live on the show, before they discusses how each of their personality types impact them as social workers. Take the test along with them to reveal your own personality type.

Join the discussion every Friday. Created FOR social workers, BY social workers.

Should social workers be doing a lot more for our clients?

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Should social workers be doing more for our clients?

This week on Social Work Radio, hosts Vince and Tilly explore what - if anything - social workers could do to help more. What additional skills, training, and services could help us offer more to our clients - and how often do we really go outside our remit to help?

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider. Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

The heartbreaking case of Bronson Battersby

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts examine the heartbreaking death of Bronson Battersby, dissecting the known timeline, the actions of Bronson's social worker, and examining the public's drive to apportion blame.

How DO we balance our safeguarding duties with people’s rights to a private and family life? In the words of Vince: "Would the public stand their door being broken down by police and social workers after one failed visit... two... three..?"

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider. Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

The harm (and good) that being a social worker does to your own family

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Has being a social worker made you a better or worse partner? Has it made you a better or worse parent?

If they could choose, would your partner and children want you to do a different job entirely?

That's the question we're asking this week on Social Work Radio as Vince is once again joined by fellow columnist and social worker, Matt Bee.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider. Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Social workers are far more valuable than we believe ourselves to be

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Do social workers value themselves?

Are they valued by their employers, government, and society?

Are they supported by their union and professional association?

As vacancy rates continue to climb, host Vince, and fellow social worker - and Social Work News columnist - Matt Bee ask themselves, how valued are social workers - truly?

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

A 2023 social work review

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year social workers!

Put 2023 to bed as our hosts Vince and Tilly walk you through a year of some of our most well-read social work stories.

Did you hear the one about the social worker barred from the profession for working two jobs with two local authorities? Or the former social worker now earning five-times her previous salary on OnlyFans?

Created BY social workers, FOcR social workers. Dive in, and enjoy!

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Merry Christmas social workers!

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Merry Christmas social workers!

Once again, this week, our host Vince is joined by fellow Social Work News columnist Matt Bee for this special Christmas episode, as they discuss everything from what it's like to be a social worker - in adult or children's services - at this time of year, their favourite Christmas movies - and the social work lessons within - to what's on their social work wish-list this festive season. Plus, an appearance by....gulp...Bad Santa... don't miss out!

Created BY social workers, FOcR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

We need a kinder way of inspecting social workers and our services

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This week, our hosts touch on the outcome of the inquest into the death of headteacher Ruth Perry, which concluded last week.

After explaining how investigations of services work in adults and children's social work, Vince and Tilly explore the coroner's findings through a social work lens, discuss what - if any - changes they expect to see to Ofsted's approach in inspections, both with schools and local authorities, and ask if there are wider lessons to be learned.

Created BY social workers, FOcR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Did you choose social work, or did social work choose you?

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 09:32:50 +0000

This week - inspired by this opinion column published over at mysocialworknews.com - our hosts are asking one another the question: Did you choose social work, or did social work choose you?

Vince and Tilly talk us through how they each came to social work, at what point they knew it was the career for them, and whether they could imagine ever doing anything else - and if so, what?

They also tell us whether they think people can be taught the soft skills needed to be a good social worker, or whether it's something would-be social workers are simply born with, begging the question: are some people destined to become social workers..?

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

10 things we really love about being a social worker

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This week - inspired by this article - Vince and Tilly are exploring everything that is brilliant about being a social worker, as each bring their top five reasons for loving their jobs to the podcasting table. How many of these can you relate to?

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Do we need more men in social work?

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Vince is joined by a special guest co-host, fellow Social Work News columnist Matt Bee, as they tackle the question: Do we need more men in social work?

Is there a stigma around being a man in a caring profession? Is social work safer for men than women? Do some clients respond better to one gender over another? And with men making up just 10-20% of the social work workforce, is this a problem that needs fixing? Or not.

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

The (Alternative) Social Worker of The Year Awards

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

It's an interesting one this week on Social Work Radio as our hosts reflect on their night at the recent Social Worker of the Year Awards (visit the Social Work News Instagram page for pics of them dressed to the nines!) and round-off the celebrations with their own Alternative Social Worker of the Year Awards 2023.

Who are their unsung heroes? Who are their GOATs? And who will be crowned social work villain of the year...?! Don't miss it!

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

For all the ones who didn’t make the night

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

This latest episode of Social Work Radio isn't easy. But it IS important.

This week, our hosts tackle an incredibly difficult topic, inspired by this powerful column published at mysocialworknews.com by our content editor - and podcast host - Vince Peart.

**Trigger warning: this episode contains themes of mental health, depression, and suicide** If you're struggling, please speak to someone, whether a friend or a professional. Visit The Samaritans for contact information. You are not alone.

Join the conversation every Friday; for social workers, by social workers

How do you cope with the things you must do as a social worker?

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 01:26:04 +0100

In this week's Social Work Radio episode, our hosts discuss their experiences of dealing with the difficult side of social work - depriving people of liberty and removing children from their parents - and how these things sit with them afterwards.

How do YOU cope with the things you must do as a social worker?

Join the conversation every Friday; for social workers, by social workers

What does it take to be a good social worker?

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 08:36:23 +0100

This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts are feeling inspired by this popular article from a new writer over at www.mysocialworknews.com and are asking the question, what qualities make for a good social worker?

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Jade’s Law: what rights should parents who murder their partners have?

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0100

It's another difficult topic this week as our hosts examine the new Jade's Law - named for Jade Ward, who - one week after ending their relationship - was brutally murdered by her former partner in 2021, while their four children slept upstairs.

Vince and Tilly discuss the sad case that inspired the law, the ethics behind the legalities, and the likely impact on all those it will affect.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Using social work skills to improve your relationship

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week on #SocialWorkRadio, our hosts are exploring how to use your social work skills to improve your relationship - whether it's as a partner, a daughter/son, or a friend.

Also, Vince and Tilly explore their own relationships as they try to answer the question: is there a danger of ‘social working’ our friends, family, and lovers, and of looking too deeply into things?

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

The celebrities who really need a social work intervention

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode of Social Work Radio, our hosts Vince and Tilly discuss celebrities they feel would benefit from a social work intervention, and how they would go about it. What starts as a light-hearted thought exercise ends up taking quite an emotional turn for our social work duo...

Created BY social workers, FOR social workers.

Join the conversation every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Am I too young/too old to be a social worker?

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0100

Inspired by a Social Work Supervision question submitted to www.mysocialworknews.com earlier this month, on this week's video episode, our hosts Vince and Tilly ask whether you can be too young or too old to become a social worker, and what benefits - if any - each offers.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The warning signs that you’re working too hard in social work

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by two recent articles in Social Work News HERE and HERE, our hosts Vince and Tilly explore the warning signs that you're working too hard in social work, ask whether managers need to be attuned to these, and discuss how you can sensitively raise the issue of others showing signs of stress.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The Lucy Letby baby murders

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0100

On 21st August 2023, Lucy Letby was sentenced to life imprisonment with a whole life order for the seven murders and seven attempted murders committed against 13 infants.

On this week's episode of Social Work Radio, the mood is more somber as Vince and Tilly sensitively explore the harrowing case of the serial killer through a social work lens.

You can also WATCH THE VIDEO of this week's podcast by visiting our homepage.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Knowing your worth as a social worker, and a person

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by this article written by Social Work News columnist Millie Glass, Vince and Tilly delve into a frequently hilarious discussion - complete with roleplay! - on the importance of self-esteem, of feeling valued as a social worker, and knowing your worth.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The damage social work does to your body

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0100

On this week's episode, inspired by this article written by Social Work News columnist Tilly Baden, Tilly is joined by co-host Vince Peart to discuss the impact social work can have on our physical well-being.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Ask us anything! We answer your social work questions...

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, on this special 'in-person' edition of Social Work News, hosts Vince and Tilly answer your social work questions.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Stop leaving your children with partners you hardly know

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, hosts Vince and Tilly take inspiration from this recent controversial article to ask: is it victim-blaming to ask mothers to protect their children from partners? Should everyone do a Sarah’s law and Claire’s law check on every new partner? Is the Cinderella effect real? And should social workers embed the risk of partners/boyfriends who are not a child’s birth parent into their assessments more?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

How to be a more respectful social worker

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, hosts Vince and Tilly examine the importance of respect in social work - what we should expect to give, what we should expect to receive - and discuss what they would each want to see from a social worker visiting them in their homes.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

What do your clients really think about you?

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week our dynamic duo is together in person!

Watch this week's episode in full right HERE (or at www.mysocialworknews.com) as our hosts Vince and Tilly ask: should social work client feedback be sought more often and more formally? Should social workers be reviewed publicly? And what review would Vince and Tilly give themselves?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

The dark secrets of surviving social work

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, inspired by this recent article by the same name, published at mysocialworknews.com, our hosts Vince and Tilly take a closer look at the dark secrets of surviving in social work.

How many of these do you do?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Imposter syndrome in social work

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, our hosts examine the issue of imposter syndrome in social work: what is it, and is it normal?

Vince and Tilly share their own experiences of imposter syndrome, reveal how it has impacted their careers, and share their top tips for combatting it in your own.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Are happier social workers better social workers?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, hosts Vince and Tilly ask the question: 'do happier social workers make better social workers?'

Inspired by American social worker Ashley Campbell's column this week at mysocialworknews.com, our dynamic duo discuss the difference in our work when we're happy rather than struggling, ask whether it's ever acceptable to moan and complain in front of the people we support, and question how often our happiness as social workers is (and should be!) checked by our employers.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Managing professional boundaries in social work

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, hosts Vince and Tilly reflect on two recent news stories published at www.mysocialworknews.com about social workers crossing the professional boundaries with clients, and discuss the difficulties of being human, empathetic, and caring, while not opening yourself up to the potential to cross professional boundaries.

They ask, what is more important, true love or success at work? How often do we think social workers develop feelings for clients but never act on them? How often do we think social workers have relationships and friendships with clients, but never get found out?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers.

Surviving your first year as a social worker

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, hosts Vince and Tilly each look back on their first year in social work, reflecting on the lessons learned, the mistakes made, and the advice they would give to their younger selves. They also reveal their messages of advice and encouragement for NQSWs starting their careers now, and discuss how universities and employers can better support new social workers.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

How to ’social work’ yourself

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week, join our hosts, Vince and Tilly, as they carry explore the idea of 'social working' yourself, discuss whether the responsibility for 'care' should lie with the individual or the employer, and - rather hilariously - indulge in a bit of roleplay as they carry out a social work assessment of one another...

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

A social worker can do the job of two women (literally)

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0100

Following this popular news story at mysocialworknews.com this week - about a social worker barred from the profession after it was discovered she was holding down two full-time jobs with two different local authorities - our Social Work Radio hosts ask: can one social worker really do the job of two? Is there any justification for what Ms N did? Did her actions really warrant being struck off? And is this an isolated incident, or are there likely to be other social workers out there getting away with this?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Social workers are all hypocrites

Fri, 26 May 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts, Vince and Tilly, ask the question - are all social workers hypocrites - guilty of not practising what they preach?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Ask me anything: social work edition

Fri, 19 May 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts, Vince and Tilly, tackle YOUR questions about social work.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Should social workers do fewer hours?

Fri, 12 May 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week on Social Work Radio, our hosts and experienced social workers, Vince and Tilly, explore the subject of how many hours social workers should really be working, whether shift work, condensed hours, or a four-day week can ever really work for this particular profession, and answer the dreaded question: are we workaholics?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Dealing with people who lie to social workers

Fri, 05 May 2023 05:00:00 +0100

This week's podcast episode explores how to deal with people who lie to social workers, and follows on from Vince's guide of the same name, which was published this week at www.mysocialworknews.com

In the same week that MP Stella Creasy revealed a malicious troll had reported her to children's services because he disagreed with her 'extreme views,' leading to an investigation of her family, Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, reflect on the idea of criminalising false complaints to social services, and discuss moments in their own practice where they were lied to or misled - either by clients, or other professionals.

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

The murder of Finley Boden

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0100

The mood is sombre this week as Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, turn their attention to the murder of 10-month-old Finley Boden, at the hands of his parents.

As the pair examine what is known about Finley's too-short life, they reflect on parallels with other infamous cases of child deaths where social workers were involved, discuss the public's reaction and media narrative of the case, and ask: how can social workers balance strengths-based practice, and wanting to keep families together, with avoiding misplaced hope and too much optimism?

Join the conversation, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Three years of Covid

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0100

Days after Tory MP Flick Drummond said "social workers stayed at home" during the pandemic, Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, looks back on three years of Covid.

The duo remember the impact of that first lockdown on the workforce, the clients, and the profession, and examine the impact Covid continues to have to this day.

Was the effort of social workers during Covid truly acknowledged? Join the discussion, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

How do we get rid of the bad apples in social work?

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0100

Join Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, as they reflect on some of Social Work England's most recent, and disturbing, fitness to practise hearings, and ask: does social work have a problem with its workforce? What are the themes? Should our recruitment be more rigorous? And are Social Work England's decisions usually right?

Join the discussion, every Friday, with your preferred podcast provider.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Are social workers taken advantage of because we care too much?

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0100

Are loyal social workers being 'exploited' by their managers?

Is being good at your job setting you up to be taken advantage of?

These are the questions on our Social Work Radio co-hosts' lips this week as Vince and Tilly - herself, a social work manager - discuss this new research, which claims that, instead of protecting or rewarding them, loyal employees are being "selectively and ironically targeted by managers for exploitative practices."

Join the discussion...

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Celebrity social workers

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Does social work need an injection of glamorous celebdom?

That's the question this week as Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, explore the benefits of famous faces representing the profession on the frontline, run down the list of celebrities who are known to have social work mothers, and discuss which celebrities they think would make the best social workers - and why.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

A social worker has won Love Island

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

As Bedford social worker Sanam Harrinanan stormed to victory on Love Island this week, Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, discuss the reaction of the social work community to her win, whether there's a route back to frontline social work after a stint on reality TV, and whether they themselves would ever be tempted to follow in Sanam's footsteps...

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

The books that changed our lives

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

What is the most important book you've read, as a social worker?

Taking World Book Day as their inspiration this week, Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, break down the best books all social workers should be reading, as well as exploring their own favourite fiction and non-fictions books, and the impact they've had.

Created by social workers, for social workers, read fantastic content at mysocialworknews.com

Why are social workers quitting in record numbers?

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

5,400 social workers left the profession in the past year- a 9% rise on the previous year and a record high, according to DfE census data, revealed this week.

Social Work Radio hosts Vince and Tilly explore the reasons behind this worsening situation, asking why more people now than ever before are leaving social work, and discussing what can be done do to retain the workforce.

Created for social workers, by social workers, Social Work Radio is available every Friday from your preferred podcast provider. Visit mysocialworknews.com for more content.

Social workers on ’OnlyFans’

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In the same week that our most popular story on Social Work News was about a former social worker who now earns five times her salary publishing explicit content on OnlyFans, join our Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, as they discuss their thoughts about what's appropriate and what isn't when it comes to social workers on OnlyFans.

(More hilarious roleplay is involved...)

You don't want to miss this one.

Created for social workers, by social workers, Social Work Radio is available every Friday from your preferred podcast provider. Visit mysocialworknews.com for more content.

Dating and relationships in social work

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Join our Social Work Radio co-hosts, Vince and Tilly, for this Valentine's-themed podcast examining the realities of dating and relationships in social work.

Hold back the laughter (if you can) while the pair chat everything from 'fessing up to being a social worker in your online dating profile, and the complications of office romances, to both the difficulties and benefits of dating outside of the profession, and the very real possibility of Vince getting 'cancelled' because he only bought chocolates for the women in his office on Tuesday...

Created for social workers, by social workers, Social Work Radio is available every Friday from your preferred podcast provider. Visit mysocialworknews.com for more content.

Does Hogwarts need a school social worker?

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Well, we certainly think so! Social workers - and Harry Potter superfans - Vince and Tilly share their plans for tackling every social work issue you could possibly imagine at Hogwarts.

Dubbing themselves the social workers for Slytherin and Hufflepuff, that leaves two House slots open...are you game? Email applications to press@mysocialworknews.com

Created for social workers, by social workers, Social Work Radio is available every Friday from your preferred podcast provider. Visit mysocialworknews.com for more content.

There’s a wounded healer inside every social worker

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

On a recent Social Work News writers retreat, Social Work Radio hosts - and frontline social workers - Vince Peart and Tilly Baden got the opportunity to podcast in person!

Join our dynamic duo as they discuss the wounded healer inside every social worker - and watch the accompanying VIDEO of their chat right here!

Created for social workers, by social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

Listen to your new Social Work Radio episode every Friday from your preferred podcast provider.

Swearing in social work

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Today on Social Work Radio, join hosts - and social workers - Vince Peart and Tilly Baden, as they discuss swearing in social work:

Are social workers generally 'swear-y' people? Do adult and children's teams have different dynamics for communication and banter? If the people you support say rude words, should you write them down in your case notes? Would the general public be surprised to find out how social workers communicate with one another?

Find out what our duo have to say on the matter...(don't worry, no offensive four-letter words!)

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

The things your social work manager wants you to know

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Today on Social Work Radio, join hosts - and social workers - Vince Peart and Tilly Baden, as they discuss Tilly's recent article, in which she - herself, a social work manager - revealed the 10 things your social work manager would like you to know.

Buckle up for an interesting ride - which, to Tilly's horror, even includes a bit of role play - as they dissect the list, in their bid to help you improve the relationship they believe is central to effective practice.

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

How social work changes you as a person

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Today on Social Work Radio, join hosts - and experienced frontline social workers - Vince Peart and Tilly Baden, as they reflect on the transformative effect of being a social worker.

Together they consider whether it's possible to keep the professional impact of the job from seeping in your personal life, examine the effect the work has had on each of them, and close the show by answering the ultimate question: "Knowing what you know now, would you still become a social worker?

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

A social work review of 2022

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Today on Social Work Radio, in a special festive edition, hosts Vince Peart and Tilly Baden take a look back at a year in social work stories.

From light-hearted features to more serious new stories, Vince and Tilly take a walk back through the year, examining 12 of the most popular stories published on Social Work News throughout 2022.

You can find links to all 12 stories in our companion article.

Charlotte Kirin: Just Stop Oil

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, host Vince Peart chats with social worker Charlotte Kirin who was recently arrested and charged with intentionally recklessly causing a public nuisance, when she scaled a gantry at junction 31 on the M25 during a Just Stop Oil protest.

In this episode, Charlotte shares her journey into social work, taking a look back at her 20-year career on the frontline, delves into her climate change concerns, and reveals what sparked her move into activism.

Support Climate Action Support Pathway here.

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

How to best prepare social work students for practice

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, host Vince Peart joins co-host and social worker Tilly Baden as they reflect on this controversial opinion column, published this week by The Secret Social Worker on www.mysocialworknews.com

Join the pair as they share what they both agree and disagree with the article's author on, discuss how best to prepare social work students for practice, reflect on their own experiences as students and on placements, and explore how universities and employers can better work together.

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

10 signs your social work manager is toxic

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, host Vince Peart joins co-host and social work manager Tilly Baden as they explore what makes a toxic social work manager - whether it's taking credit for your ideas, not respecting your boundaries, or breaching confidentiality and gossiping behind your back.

Join the pair as they work their way through the list - inspired by Tilly's article of the same name - and see if they raise any red flags for you.

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

The 10 regrets of the dying

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In this week's episode, host Vince Peart is once again joined by co-host and social worker Tilly Baden, as they delve into another difficult topic - the regrets of the dying - inspired by the book of the same name, by Georgina Scull.

Join the pair as they work their way through the list, reflecting on their own experiences - both personal and professional - and each answering the question nobody wants to think about: 'what would you do if you had one year left to live?'

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

Can we stop parents from killing their own children?

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Vince Peart - an independent social worker, and content editor of Social Work News - is once again joined by co-host and social worker Tilly Baden, as they discuss the question asked by all social workers at one time or another: Can we stop parents from killing their own children?

Follow their discussion as they examine risk factors, explore blame culture, and revisit tragic cases that made media headlines across the globe.

Relevant Links:

- CDC's Risk and Protective Factors

- National Library of Medicine's Early identification of Risk of Child Abuse Fatalities: Possibilities and Limits of Prevention

- Child Welfare Information Gateway's Risk Factors of Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

Behind the scenes at The Social Worker of the Year Awards 2022

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This week Social Work Radio host Vince Peart walks co-host Tilly Baden through a night of glitz, glamour, and golden awards, with behind the scenes interviews from The Social Worker of the Year Awards 2022, held in London last Friday (watch our VIDEO here!)

Social Work News chatted with host Ashley John-Baptiste, chief social worker Lyn Romeo, chair of the board of trustees Peter Hay, BASW's Vava Tampa and Ruth Allen, and lots of lovely award winners!

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.

Why are 67% of social workers considering leaving the profession

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:15:48 +0000

In our pilot episode, join host Vince Peart - an independent social worker, and content editor of Social Work News - as he chats to co-host and social worker Tilly Baden about why 67% of social workers are considering leaving the profession.

Settle in as they lift the veil on the reality behind the social care headlines, examine the pressures facing the profession, share how they've maintained their love for the work...and land on the figure they think social workers should really be paid!

Plus there's some chat about kittens. Obviously.

Created by social workers, for social workers, Social Work News has a global audience, sharing the voices and experiences of those working on the frontline.