Social work: a “forgotten” piece of the integration jigsaw?

Abstract

Purpose – The article seeks to analyse the potential contribution of social work to integration debates. Social work has tended to be seen as marginal to these discussions despite the potential of social work expertise and leadership to help forge effective approaches to joined-up care. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how social work is well positioned to help lead and support practice focused change across social care and health. It also seeks to show how professional leadership can be a powerful vehicle for changing professional and organisational cultures. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws on practice and research evidence to demonstrate the proposition that social work can make a powerful contribution to debates about integration. Findings – Three things could help build the cultural capital that is a pre-requisite to building integrated and joined-up approaches. First, the author needs to invest in developing the role of social workers and GPs working together as local professional and practice leaders. Second, there is a real risk that in any discussion about professional leadership and partnership, the author eclipses the singularly critical importance of engaging and involving users and carers in non tokenistic ways. Finally, the author needs to utilise better social work’s skills and knowledge in managing risk, building resilience and promoting social inclusion. Research limitations/implications – Further evaluation and research is needed about the potential for GPs and social workers to develop joined-up approaches to care for and support older and disabled people. Practical implications – Social workers need to be provided with the tools, support and space in which to develop their practice leadership role, including but not exclusively with GPs. Originality/value – This paper does not purport to offer any specifically originally research but rather some reflections on how social work expertise might better contribute to integration debates.