Accountability and 'whistle-blowing' in social work
Learning Objectives
After considering this resource, you should have a better understanding of the importance of accountability in social work practice, the different types of accountability that a social worker will encounter and how to raise concerns safely.
The practice of social work is underpinned by a strong ethical basis, which sets the boundaries of permissible action and creates a framework for decision making to which social workers are accountable. For social workers accountability includes not just legal rules and values, but the rules and values of their profession. In this article Liz Davies explores the different roles played by professional regulatory bodies, employers, universities and the wider public with regard to social work accountability. The piece also considers how to raise concerns over issues in practice in a manner that is safe and appropriate.
Reflective Questions
- To whom is the student social worker accountable?
- How may a student raise a concern about malpractice when on placement?
- How can the student gain representation in order to progress a concern?
- What is the distinction between professional accountability and accountability to an employer?