Learning disability specialists urged to join advisory group on ‘named social worker’ reforms

The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) have issued a call to social workers who have expertise in working with people with learning disabilities to join a BASW group advising on the Government’s ‘named social worker’ reforms.

The Department of Health in England is to trial the measure designed to strengthen rights of vulnerable people by providing a social worker to challenge decisions about their care.

The scheme is part of the government’s response to the consultation on the ‘No voice unheard, no right ignored’ green paper.

Michael Chapman, Chair of BASW’s Social Work with Adults Reference Group, said: “This is about ensuring that people with a mental health condition, autism or behaviour that challenges are provided with placements meeting their needs in the local community rather than languishing in hospital assessment centres, as recently illustrated by the story of Josh Wills from Cornwall who was in a hospital unit in Birmingham for years.”

To find out more or get involved email [email protected]