Dr Jane Shears
Jane is a registered social worker who took up post with the British Association of Social Workers as Head of Professional Development in August 2018. She also maintains current practice as an Approved Mental Health Professional in England and a Best Interests Assessor. Jane has previously been the chair of BASW’s International Committee and is currently the Global Commissioner for the International Federation of Social Work Global Ethics Commission. Her research interests include the integration of social care with health services, co-production and practitioner research. Jane began her current role with BASW as the National Director (Scotland and Northern Ireland) on October 1st, 2025.
Noeleen Higgins - Professional Officer
Professional Officer for BASW NI since 2022 Noeleen is an experienced social worker who is registered with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council. Noeleen has held a variety of statutory roles in children’s community social work and adult community social work in learning disability, physical disability and autism services.
Noeleen engages with membership, the wider social work community and a broad range of stakeholders on issues affecting the profession to influence social work policy and practice.
Outside of her role in BASW NI Noeleen is an external tutor on the Bachelor of Social Work Undergraduate degree at Queen’s University Belfast.
Email - noeleen.higgins@basw.co.uk
Lindsey Bates - Administrator
Linz joined the team in February 2021 and is the main point of contact for all member/non member queries as well as supporting the team, committee and events.
Outside of work Linz is mom to 2 children, is a keen baker, loves music especially Northern Soul and all things vintage.
Email - lindsey.bates@basw.co.uk
If you have a question for one of the team please feel free to contact us directly below or reach out to the NI team by emailing n.ireland@basw.co.uk.