Social Work Workforce: What have we learned from a decade of research?

Professor McFadden has examined social work workforce concerns for over a decade, starting with a PhD in 'Resilience and Burnout in Child Protection Social Work' in 2013 and subsequently leading regional, national, and international research projects on a range of aspects of workforce concerns for social work and health professionals. The inaugural lecture aims to bring together the key messages from research to date and set the context for future studies including the need to focus on the consequences of workforce concerns in social work at multiple levels. Specifically, the impact of turnover on service recipients, carers and families, social workers, and employing organizations. Fiscal costs of turnover in social work are noted, showing that 'doing more of the same' is neither economically efficient nor sustainable. Concluding remarks will contain clear messages about the importance of evidence based workforce planning, including recognition of fiscal and moral responsibilities of government and commissioners to 'get this right' for the most vulnerable individuals and groups in society.

Formal Proceedings: 5-6 pm Great Hall, MD102

Drinks Reception 6-7 pm Minor Hall, MD106

Parking available: Please message Ms Bridget O'Malley [email protected] if disability car parking is needed or if there are special dietary requirements.

Photo Credit to Dr Phillip McDermott

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Ulster University Magee Campus, MD102, Room MD102, Great Hall, Londonderry, United Kingdom