Fears voiced over plans to cut hospital social workers
Children’s charities today warned the safety of vulnerable youngsters may be put at risk by proposals to cut the number of social workers in city hospitals by more than half.
Children’s charities today warned the safety of vulnerable youngsters may be put at risk by proposals to cut the number of social workers in city hospitals by more than half.
The city council plans to save around £400,000 a year by cutting the number of social workers – from 18 to eight – who work in hospitals spotting potential abuse cases and supporting seriously ill, disabled and mentally ill youngsters.
But Children 1st and Capability Scotland have both expressed their concern about the potential impact on some of the most vulnerable youngsters.
Anne Houston, chief executive of Children 1st, said: “It is concerning that vulnerable children and young people may be the ones to suffer as a consequence. I know that the council will be very aware of the importance of providing support as early as possible.
“The evidence shows that the earlier help can be provided the less it will cost, both in emotional terms for the child and in financial terms for society.”
Richard Hamer, director of external affairs for Capability Scotland, added: “Clearly in these difficult economic times local authorities have to make difficult decisions about where funding priorities lie.
“It is vital, however, that the council properly measures the impact of any action they intend to take on disabled children and their families, as they are obliged to in law, to ensure that they are not disadvantaged by these actions.”
The social work team has bases at the Sick Kids hospital, the children and young people’s unit at the Royal Edinburgh and the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. Among those it helps are unborn children with families not likely to cope with the demands of parenthood.
The team also plays a key role in identifying children who may be at risk, as well as providing support for families of children with serious illness.
The council report on the proposals, which will be considered by a full meeting of the local authority, acknowledges a “reduction of service to children affected by serious health issues, children with disabilities, mental health problems and maternity services”.
A city council spokesman said: “There will remain a commitment to ensuring that those most in need or at risk continue to get an appropriate service.”
John Stevenson, president of the Edinburgh branch of Unison, said: “Any cuts in frontline social work would be obscene given the improvements the council has tried to make.”
Professor Alex McMahon, acting director of strategic planning for NHS Lothian, added: “We are aware of the proposals from the council. We will continue to work closely to ensure the future of these important services is maintained.”
