Read on Twitter
I wonder what it would take for social work leaders to stand up for generic training of social workers with more time to train rather than narrowing training to limited models in limited areas, by a less diverse group who have more opportunities than standard entrants
For me, itās a standard equity of access issue. Sure, bring in different groups to train but donāt hardwire discrimination so some get access to better opportunities, more money, more teaching time, time with influencers etc. It creates tiers of practitioners from day one.
Not everyone starts from the same point. This isnāt accounted for in programmes which cherry pick from who can do a video of themselves best. We know that thereās not much diversity on entrance to fast track schemes
And yet no debate or discussion is allowed. Itās a slam dunk. Any variation of view is written off as being by bad faith actors. Iām not an academic. Iām not a manager. Iām not a leader. I donāt have any influence.
I have a love of being a social worker and I want people to come into the profession from many places and not be disadvantaged because all the funding passes to fast track schemes that can buy PR. Buy influence. Itās deeply uncomfortable that all leaders..
From BASW to Chief social workers have been spun by the powerful lobbies and cannot express anything other than the Frontline/Think Ahead party line. Thereās lots in training and education that needs changing. Lots. But selling it to the highest bidder isnāt the answer.
I have nothing to gain by raising these concerns. Iām not looking for a platform or a different career route. Iām 20 years past qualifying and donāt want to do anything other than direct practice (Iāve done other things in my career and am exactly where I want to be now)
But why is it so impossible to challenge these approaches. I want more and better social work. I see a narrowing of opportunities and I worry
At the end of the day, we have to live the values we profess to have. I couldnāt not speak up. Itās easy because Iām anonymous. But it makes me realise how subjective āvaluesā are. Imagine going to speak to these fast track entrants and not seeing the lack of diversity.
Not challenging it because they pay well and they offer a cosy route to management. Humbug. Iāll quieten down because I know no one listens and thatās fine. I canāt demand the right to be heard. Iāll go on trying to make the best I can for those who I am employed to help
