Note of the Children and Families PSW Network event on 25 January 2024
Welcome from the Chairs
The PCFSW chair team welcomed everyone to the network event and discussed how to build on their collaborative and inclusive focus and actions in 2024 and beyond.
Introducing a solution focused approach
‘A brief solution focused approach - Inspiring hope in social work’ was presented by Loredana Grigore, Anne Manning and Luke Goldie McSorley from Essex County Council.
Reverse mentoring
Andy Griffiths from The Staff College introduced the concept of reverse mentoring, describing what it is and its benefits.
Opportunities and challenges for the sector
A panel led by Dez Holmes (Research in Practice) with contributions from Jeremy Gleaden (Ofsted), Colum Conway (SWE), explored current opportunities and challenges for the sector and the social work profession.
International recruitment
Finally, a session on international recruitment discussed:
- ‘Support for Social Workers Recruited from Overseas (International Social Workers)’ was presented by Florah Shiringo (Vice Chair of the ADCS workforce policy committee) providing an in-depth look at all aspects of recruitment and support.
- Ruth Pilch and Deborah Adams from Norfolk Children’s Services discussed their ‘International Social Worker Supportive Programme’ and how this helped to transition their skills into working in the UK setting.
- Tracey Davey from Cornwall Council shared her experience of the international recruitment process.