The guide was developed in collaboration with valued stakeholders including Women’s Aid, Galop, Southall Black Sisters, Sign Health, Karma Nirvana, Respect, AVA, Ann Craft Trust, Dr Michaela Rogers at the University of Sheffield, as well as people with lived experience and BASW members.
The Social Workers Union fully supports the aims of the Domestic Abuse Bill. We believe that all people, be they adults or children, should be protected from violence in any setting, including their home. We welcome the initiative of a cross-party group of Peers to introduce a new clause to the Bill that would provide greater protection to children from violence in the home by repealing the legal defence of ‘reasonable punishment’.
BASW England and BASW Cymru have backed an amendment to the Bill that would mean public authorities would have a statutory duty to commission support in the community for all victims of domestic abuse, including children.
The Committee found that relatives remain an essential part of care for so many older and disabled people in care homes - as it helps them to keep their memories alive, in touch with the outside world, and it reassures them of their continued place in the family.
There needs to be significant, long-term investment in children and young people across the country - with support services for vulnerable children and care leavers requiring urgent resources, both during and beyond the pandemic.
BASW NI has briefed the Northern Ireland Assembly Education Committee calling for up-to-date guidance aimed at minimising the use of restraint and preventing the use of seclusion for children with additional needs in educational settings.
Julie Morgan AS/MS, Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, confirms social workers in Wales are integral to ensuring the wellbeing of residents in residential care and should be recognised as professional visitors