Unions back Barking and Dagenham council over social workers
UNION representatives have met with officers from Barking and Dagenham council to discuss the lack of social workers in the borough. Last week the POST reported that staff are being recruited from Boston in America later this month in order to fill vacanc
UNION representatives have met with officers from Barking and Dagenham council to discuss the lack of social workers in the borough.
Last week the POST reported that staff are being recruited from Boston in America later this month in order to fill vacancies.
The plan to bring qualified employees in from overseas is not a new one and is generally supported by the unions as a necessary step.
Dave Clack from Unison said: "There is a shortage of social workers in the country as a whole.
"It is not the sort of job where you can go home at the end of the day and forget about it - it's a vocation.
"The work is so intense, and often you aren't thanked - you are hounded.
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"I think that because of instances like baby P people are more wary of getting into social work".
The council made its decision to fly out to Boston to recruit 10 social workers from the USA because their qualifications are comparable to those in the UK.
Union leaders think they will be able to bring a fresh approach to children's and adults' services and welcome the change.
It is also supported by MP for Dagenham, Jon Cruddas.
A council spokesman said: "The council is hoping to recruit experienced and qualified social workers and it will be at no cost to the council.
