Crisis in social work revealed by new UNISON survey

Social workers say they are no longer able to do their jobs effectively because of years of repeated cuts that have created a crisis in the sector, according to a survey published by UNISON today (Wednesday). The survey found an overwhelming number (95%) felt they could not perform their jobs properly due to the combined effects of reduced services and the social conditions created by austerity. Eight out of ten social workers say they’re forced to work unpaid overtime simply to keep their services going and fewer than one in five (17%) say their workload is manageable. UNISON says the survey of more than 1,000 social workers shows the devastating effects of the government’s cost-cutting, as key community services are now barely effective. Ministers must act to put more money into local government before it’s too late, says the union. Austerity is making it harder for councils to intervene in cases early which means families can be at a crisis point before social workers become involved. And the effects of financial misery caused by changes to the benefits system have made even more people vulnerable, says UNISON. According to the survey: More than half (56%) are thinking of leaving for jobs that would be less stressful. One in four (25%) social workers are working more than seven hours overtime each week. Eight in ten social workers (80%) say local people aren’t receiving the help and support they need at the right time. More than two thirds (68%) of social worker...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: News Press release Source Type: news