A recruitment drive has been launched in Bristol to boost the number of social workers for vulnerable children and families.

Unions and council managers have warned of an epidemic of stress among social workers after the head of one of the country’s biggest social work departments said his staff currently take an average of five weeks off sick each year.

FORMER bouncers, police officers and servicemen and women are being encouraged to make the most of their skills by retraining as support workers.

A PILOT scheme is being launched by Sussex Police to help aid vulnerable adults and youths in custody. The Appropriate Adult Service (TASS) will provide a trained “appropriate adult” for those who need help while they are being interviewed in custody.

A GRIEVING dad is incensed over how his son’s death in a Lincolnshire care home has been handled by the authorities.

In the first extract from a revelatory new biography, the former England rugby player tells how he kept quiet for years about his ordeal because he felt guilty and ashamed – and to protect his parents.
 

An appeal has been launched to find carers for vulnerable adults who want to live in the community. Run by Kent County Council, the adult placement service is seeking carers who are willing to open their homes to disabled adults, older people or those with learning difficulties.

A NEW career structure for social workers is vital if the profession is to tackle the staffing crisis, according to Newham’s chief of children’s services.

After almost a decade leading the county’s social services, Margaret Sheather leaves Gloucestershire County Council this week.

An urgent review has been ordered after a confidential report drawn up by staff at the council involved in the Baby P scandal was left on a train.