Frontline Stories

Our next bonus episode brings you Mark Adams, CEO of Community Integrated Care, one of Britain's biggest and most successful health and social care charities. Their exceptional colleagues change the lives of those with learning disabilities, autism, mental health concerns and dementia – with the goal of supporting people to live the best lives possible.As part of their recent #UnfairToCare report (which featured independent research conducted by Korn Ferry), Adams elaborates on the impact of underpaying and underappreciating colleagues and its negative impact on services and the people they support. He also talks about what both local and national government could do to turn things around and to reverse years of underfunding, overshadowing and under-caring for social care workers.If you want to get involved in the campaign and show your appreciation for our social care heroes, visit https://www.unfairtocare.co.uk/ and follow their guidance on how to contact your local MP.Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

In this episode we bring you an exciting conversation with Bradford City Council's Deputy Director of Children's Services, Irfan Alam! Irfan describes what he experienced coming into the role and how the pandemic affected the service dramatically.  Talking about the significant dedication of Bradford's 500 or so Social Workers, Alam elaborates on the importance of trust in leadership through a challenging time of change and uncertainty. Such a brilliant and eye-opening episode. Did you know that listening to our podcasts counts towards your CPD requirements? We have plenty more episodes for you to surf through! Support the show: (https://socialpersonnel.com/podcasts)Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Another inspiring episode of Upfront About Social Work! This week, hosts Chris and Lawrence sat down with author, trainer and social work advocate Dr Jenny Molloy to discuss her upbringing in care and the importance of #SocialWorkers in our everyday lives.

This week, we spoke to Alasdair Kennedy, more commonly known as the Sociable Social Worker! Alasdair talks about the importance of being a voice for other Social Workers and a platform to share stories about the industry. Using his YouTube channel, he has brought together a tight-knit community of Social Workers who share tips, anecdotes and experiences. It's highly beneficial to connect with people in similar walks of life. Too many Social Workers stay hidden in the shadows, but Alasdair is here to shine light on the importance of connecting with your industry and community, you never know who you could help out! Check out his YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjZcDjCj4o4Nxmzmen9sSowAlasdair's Twitter: @SociableSocialWSupport the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

For this episode we spoke to Ellie Garraway from  Grit: Breakthrough Programmes (@grit_2017 on twitter). We’ve been working alongside Grit for a while now and really support their way of engaging with Young People and Local Authorities. This time we spoke about how Grit have continued to support people throughout Covid19 and how their programmes help Local Authorities change their narrative and embed change. One of the programmes that Grit are running at the moment is mentoring for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. You’ll receive online training before you do anything, and you will be coaching weekly for around three months.  If you are interested in something like this, here is a link to their contact form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc5OAIUqVWPqIZAOaPFVWyGEDwx7haXeesp7NiFnpgrRkj90g/viewform Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

In this episode, hosts Chris and Lawrence speak to Transformation Programme Director Peter Featherstone. In this episode we talk about his own career journey, and what it takes to deliver large scale transformation programmes. With his expertise around the formation of Childrens Trust, having support Doncaster, Birmingham and Northamptonshire we touch upon the great work that is being undertaken by Social Workers throughout the pandemic. You do not want to miss this episode!Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

This week we speak to Toni George from “One Stop Social Work” and Bill Say from “Just Say Training” (https://justsaytrainingworcester.co.uk) join us today to discuss all things #mentalhealth, #resiliance and #coping strategies during #Covid19uk.A must have listen for everyone, not just the social work profession.Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

After the murder of George Floyd in the summer of 2020 there has been an increased focus on language, anti-racist practice and the role of people in colour within social work. To continue the momentum and retain the focus. To guide us through this we spoke to Wayne Reid (Wayne_Ried79), Anti-Racism Visionary for the British Association of Social Workers (@BASW), who speaks to Chris and Lawrence about the importance of people of colour in social work, and his aims to make the sector a more inclusive place to be. Wayne and Siobhan McLean (founder of Kirwin Mclean Associates) are about to release “Outlanders” a collection of creative contributions by social workers of colour. Pre-order your copy here: https://siobhanmaclean.co.uk/publications/outlanders Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Today on #upfrontaboutsocialwork we are speaking to Delia and Laura from Oxfordshire County Council. Unbelievably, they have managed to successfully launch a new practice framework at the council in the midst of a national emergency. The initial feedback from practitioners, managers and (more importantly) children and their families has been overwhelmingly positive. This has had a really positive impact so if you want to hear more visit: https://www.incredible-creatures.co.uk/Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

In this episode, hosts Chris and Lawrence speak to Social Work Consultant extraordinaire Risthardh Hare. Talking about his new publication – ‘STAIRS – psychologists and social workers collaborating to create better services for families’ along with an insight into both Early Help, and Domestic Violence its one certainly not to be missed.Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

With our Head of Marketing and creator of Upfront About Social Work Laura Baxter leaving us, her and Chris sit down to reflect on the show and introduce new host Lawrence Silvester. Find out what plans Chris and Lawrence have for where to take it in the new year, and what Laura's favourite episodes have been. Thank you to Laura for bringing this idea to the table, and getting the podcast up and off the ground in the first instance.Here's to some fab new stories for 2021If you'd like to appear as a guest, please email upfront@socialpersonnel.com Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

We meet the man behind MASH, and the woman who challenged him to make it better and take it further. They have since taken the model all around the globe, run a knowledge based workshop programme and have been able to reach out to thousands through #VOC - Voice of a Child. Nigel and Marisa are a brilliant double act, with a story you won't want to miss. Find out more about their work by visiting - http://nibsharedvision.uk/Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Last but not least in our Havering Mini series is Kate Dempsey. Kate is rather uniquely the Principal Social Worker for both Adults and Children's - something we'd never come across before. She is the most calm and level headed person and it's easy to see why she's the woman in this role. Here concludes the Mini Series at Havering Council. It was so great to be able to share a whole picture of one authorities children's services and we hoped you enjoyed listening. If you're interested in working at Havering, check out their social work specific website here - https://www.socialworkhavering.com/Thanks again to Dave, Robert, Jane and Kate for giving up your time and taking part in the show. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

As promised, here is part 2 of Robert South (Director) and Jane Carroll (Assistant Director) episode of the Havering Mini Series. They talk about the big transformation Havering has undergone the past couple of years and how one of the most noticeable positives has been the shift in use of agency staff, having gone from them making up around 50% of the workforce, to now over 80% of staff being permanent. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

The very dynamic duo that are Robert South (Director) and Jane Carroll (Assistant Director) join us for the second installment of our Havering Mini Series. They talk about the big transformation Havering has undergone the past couple of years and how one of the most noticeable positives has been the shift in use of agency staff, having gone from them making up around 50% of the workforce, to now over 80% of staff being permanent. With so much great info shared in this interview, we decided to split this episode into a 2 parter to ensure you don't miss anything. So enjoy part 1 and tune back in next week for part 2. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

I'm confident that even through the airwaves, you will feel Dave's energy, warmth and passion for the industry. It's easy to see why all at Havering have brought into Dave, he's fully invested in both the community and the internal staff. Dave's lounge is open for all who wish to enter and we are very much looking forward to being invited back for a cuppa there soon! Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Nick Pendry, the Director of Children & Safeguarding at Croydon Council speaks to us about journey, and how after just a few years in the job, he left as he didn't feel he was well equipped enough to be a social worker. He sought out those extra skills he needed to be the best he could, and returned to the industry he is still today so passionate about. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Matt Clayton and Jess Thompson from the Through Care Team at Coventry City Council talk us through the huge success their Channel 4 documentary "Super Kids" was, and how it saw them rubbing shoulders with the stars on the BAFTA red carpet. We discuss the Lifelong Links pilot they are running with great success, and how the whole city has really come together as a community. An incredibly inspiration episode.Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Lisa Lamb, social worker turned commissioner talks to us about her extraordinary journey. From human rights law in NYC to Children with learning disabilities social worker in London, to being ready to take the next step as an innovative leader. A breath of fresh air and a great way to kick off season 2. Enjoy! Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Slight change to our usual format this week as we feel it is our duty to ensure our workers are educated when it comes to payroll. Almost all locum social workers would have been effected by the IR35 regulations that came in last year, and those umbrella companies offering schemes that seem too good to be true, usually are! So we sit down with Julia Kermode, the Director of the FCSA to get the low down on how to ensure you're compliant and won't end up with an unwanted Tax Bill! Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

This week Laura flies solo and sits with Gemma and Nick from Community Care. They delve back into the origins of CC back when it was a magazine in the 70's, through its journey to current day. They talk about changes they've seen over the years and the differences between local authority and charity/private sector social care. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

We sit down with Rachael Bracknell, Supply Chain Manager of Adecco to find out all the behind the scenes work that goes into putting a master vend contract in place with a council. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

We catch up with Matt Hughes, long time social worker and now creator of One Stop Social - an amazing hub of resources for people in the profession. He talks about his career, the reality of youth gangs and knife crime and gives us some hot personal gossip! Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Chris sits down with Kerry Crichlow, the Director of Improvement at Croydon council to discuss the journey this borough has been on to get to where it is today. This is a great eye opener and behind the scenes episode for those who don't know what the role of Improvement actually does.Chris flies solo on this first part of a 2 part Croydon special - watch out for the second instalment, coming soon! A message from Croydon....We have a fantastic offer for staff who join us on our journey to outstanding. Find out more at www.croydonsocialworkjobs.co.ukIf you like what you’ve heard e-mail your CV to socialworkjobs@croydon.gov.ukWe are passionate about developing and stimulating our staff. If you’d like to attend our next Excellence in Practice seminar featuring Dr. h.c. Jenny Molloy, BASW England Patron on 29th March please email ChildrenLearning@Croydon.gov.uk with your name and current position. This event will take place on Friday 29th March from 1.30pm – 4pm with registration and coffee from 1.30pm. The event will be held central Croydon.Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Frontline Stories, the podcast about how to leave your mark on social services. Today we meet with experienced social worker, improvement manager, trainer and reggae extraordinaire Carol Stewart. Carol has a long and varied career that has seen her work the frontline, move up the ranks and now impart her wisdom onto others through her training business and in her improvement role at a local authority. Like many of those we meet, Carol is very busy outside of her day job and the projects she's involved in, all relate back to her passion for social work. Below are the links to everything "Carol" related she covers off, we hope you enjoy the show! http://chinaraenterprises.com/https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Performance-Art/Reggae-by-The-River-684119838359692/Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Welcome to Frontline Stories, the podcast about how to leave your mark on social services. Chris and Laura give a quick overview on what to expect from this series and let you know what they have in store in this series. Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)

Frontline Stories, the podcast about how to leave your mark on social services. Today we meet with CP Chair, IRO, newly published author and general all round wonderful human Chris Morrison. Chris has a huge passion for social care and that flows out of his day job into his hobbies, projects and even business ventures. He's just released a children's book helping to explain the role of a social worker, and it will be the first in a series about little Rio. You can buy "Daddy's Special Drink" here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddys-Special-Drink-Chris-Morrison/dp/1912850141Support the show (http://www.socialpersonnel.com/podcast)