‘This is one of the most important jobs in social work’

The announcement of a new general secretary for the only specialist union for social workers in the UK is just days away.

Ballot boxes close at midday on 29 April, with the result due to be announced the next day.

Two candidates are standing – the union’s current chair Dave Callow and its assistant general secretary Calum Gallacher.

But the election has not been without controversy. Gallacher declined to take part in both a newly introduced skills test and a questions-and-answer event, objecting to the format.

As a result only Callow has been endorsed by SWU’s Nominations Endorsement Committee, though both candidates remain in the race.

John McGowan, due to step down after a decade as general secretary, talks to PSW about the role and the election process.

What does the job of the general secretary of the Social Workers Union involve?

It involves leading and representing the union at both UK-wide and national levels, shaping its overall strategy, overseeing financial management, and acting as the principal spokesperson on issues affecting social workers and the wider trade union movement.

The position also includes responsibility for the union’s day-to-day operations. This means engaging directly with social workers and students to ensure their voices are heard, building relationships with key stakeholders, leading media campaigns, managing staff, and coordinating both local and national initiatives. The general secretary also supports collaborative work through the co-operation agreement, working closely with BASW and other partner organisations.

A key part of the role where possible is influencing public policy, raising awareness of social work issues across local and national platforms, and strengthening the union’s reach and impact. 

This includes supporting initiatives such as the SWU developed cross-party group for social workers at Westminster. In addition, the position carries responsibilities beyond the union itself, including serving as a national executive member of the General Federation of Trade Unions and being a speaker at a range of events. 

The variety of the role is one of its defining features. On any given day, I might be speaking with a social work student about activism, engaging with the media on a social work issue and engaging with an MP on policy affecting the profession.

Why is it such an important role?

I believe it is one of the most important jobs in social work. You are the main voice and representative for all members and staff of the union, ensuring that social workers’ concerns are heard and taken seriously by employers, other organisations, media, unions and the government. 

Social workers do a crucially important and complex job, yet too often they are not given the tools or the conditions to do it safely. As the only specialist union for social work, we can, and must, help change this.

The role also has a legal responsibility to ensure we meet our statutory duties set by the government’s Trade Union Certification Office. 

It also involves making sure SWU’s executive functions properly, our accounts are correct and organisational duties – such as elections, motions and the AGM – are performed. 

What would you say are the key characteristics needed?

Strong leadership and decisive judgment to guide the union and represent its members. Exceptional communication skills are essential for engaging with employers, giving presentations and meeting with government representatives, the media, and the public. 

Integrity, a strong sense of fairness and approachability are crucial for building trust and advocating and campaigning for members’ rights. 

Strategic thinking is needed to plan campaigns and respond effectively to challenges. You need resilience, adaptability, and confidence to handle pressure and conflict. 

A genuine commitment to supporting social workers and improving their working conditions is vital. I take pride in maintaining direct contact with members to ensure their voices are heard and I respond to every member in touch with me.

There’s been a lot of controversy over the election process - why is that?

To be honest, I am unsure, but it is not helped by some comments made on social media. I really can’t see what is controversial about a union deciding what is the best process to seek out a new leader. It has been thought out and discussed with our legal advisor. 

Much of the controversy has played out on social media and SWU made a conscious decision not to engage in this during the election. Social media has its advantages but it can be toxic and that’s what informed our decision.

We also decided not to do any posts or media activity, apart from formal emails direct to SWU members. 

Do you think the process has been fair?

Yes. We engaged with our legal advisor throughout. Civica UK, a leading election management service, was contracted to manage the ballot and electoral process.

We adhered to SWU rules in enabling candidates to stand for election without placing any barriers. Both candidates were provided with clear and comprehensive candidate guidance. 

They were informed in advance that a skills test was required for SWU endorsement. The purpose of this test was never to disadvantage any candidate; it was a simple test of knowledge linked to the job.

Candidates who chose not to participate were clearly informed that they would not receive SWU endorsement on the ballot paper.

SWU hosted a live Q&A husting last month, which was recorded in its entirety. Members were invited to submit questions covering a broad range of relevant topics.

What impact has debate over the process had on the election?

Members are entitled to their views on the process. Both candidates are still standing. So far we have had two emails from members not happy with it and we were happy to engage. Similarity we have had lots of messages from members who have supported the decision of the endorsement process. 

What’s your message to SWU members as the election deadline nears?

Recognise the importance of your vote and take the time to engage with the process.  This is an opportunity to shape the future direction of the union and choose a leader who will represent their interests, values, and concerns. 

I would encourage members to review the candidates carefully, think about the issues that matter most to them and make their voices heard. A strong turnout helps ensure the union remains democratic, representative, and effective. 

What's your message to the next leader of SWU?

Stay true to the core values of social work and trade unionism. Listen closely to the voices of social workers on the frontline, as their experiences should shape the union’s direction and priorities. 

Be prepared to challenge unfair policies and push for meaningful change, even when it is difficult. At the same time, build strong relationships with stakeholders, be visible and promote unity within the profession and with other unions. 

I would also urge them to encourage members to be active, both within the SWU executive and more widely, to achieve change.

Above all, lead with integrity, resilience, and a clear commitment to improve both the working conditions of social workers and the quality of support provided to the communities they serve.