Former MP To Head British Association Of Social Workers

Hilton Dawson, a former MP, is to head the organisation representing Britain’s social workers. Dawson, who chairs the National Academy for Parenting Practitioners, will take the helm at the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) in April.

Before serving as MP for Lancaster and Wyre between 1997 and 2005, Dawson trained as a social worker and spent 16 years in the social care sector.

After leaving parliament, he became chief executive of children’s charity Shaftesbury Young People. He combines his current role at the parenting academy with working as a development consultant for Serco Education and Children’s Services.

Dawson will take over from Ian Johnston, who has been BASW’s chief executive for the last decade.

The BASW chair, Ronnie Barnes, said: “I am delighted with the appointment of Hilton Dawson as the new chief executive of BASW. He comes with an impressive record in social work and will be a passionate and committed advocate for social workers and service users.

“Hilton is joining us at a time of sustained growth and stability due to the stewardship of Ian Johnston. I am very confident that we have found a worthy successor to Ian who will take the association forward by further developing our reputation as the THE voice of social work practice”.

Dawson said: “I am already a member of BASW and I am delighted to have been appointed chief executive of such a vital organisation at this crucial time in the development of the social work profession. I believe social work to be the most important job in the world because of the part social workers play in helping people make the best of their lives and in contributing to the betterment of society.

“As chief executive of the professional organisation for social workers in all four countries of the UK, I will work hard with members across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to ensure that our achievements and views are highlighted and understood by policymakers and wider society.”