Definition and determination of “Best Interest” is one of the most fundamental and controversial concept in social work and social care, and yesterday’s debate was focused on determination of “Best Interest… ” and questions such as: What does “Best Interest” signify? How is it defined/determined? and Who determines and/or should determine the “Best Interest…” of users of service?
The debate was as lively as always and below are many of the point and views expressed by our debate participants.
We wish to thank you all for participating in our debate and look forward to seeing you next Tuesday (31 January) at 20:00 GMT / 15:00 EST when we discuss “Social Work Praxis: The theory & practice divide”. We wish to examine whether there is any such thing as social work theory and if that is in any way relevant to practice.
“Best Interest…” Debate Summary for 24 January 2012
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Welcome to another exciting & rich @SWSCmedia debate & thank you for joining us @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Determining “Best Interest” of adults and children is a central focus of social work and social care practice and practitioners #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Indeed, few concepts are as central and as controversial as “Best Interest” in social work and social care. #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Therefore, our first question for tonight’s debate @SWSCmedia is: What is Best Interest & How do you define it? #SWSCmedia
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Pynda0 Pinda
Hey #swscmedia people. So excited to be apart of this !!!
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia We use frameworks such CIN framework DOH and the welfare checklist to help ascertain what is in the best interest #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
@Pynda0 Welcome… Our first question is What is Best Interest & how do you define it? @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@Pynda0 Hello Welcome #swscmedia exciting to have you join 
lillieputian Lillieputian
@Pynda0 Hello and welcome to #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
My thought “best interest” has both a legal meaning and a more general human meaning. I don’t think they are the same@SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia, is it just assessments & frameworks that definie ‘best interest?’
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
@SWSCmedia rather, glad to be HERE #SWSCmedia
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
@SWSCmedia I provide clients with options, discuss the pros and cons of each option, and let them decide their best interest is #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
In FC services it is always context what is in 1 person best interest is not always in another person best interest. #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia not sure u can define it in wide sense only each individual case but think u have to attempt to put yourself in persons shoes
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@ScottDuffy @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia ~ but everywhere there is an echo of ‘budget cuts’ ~ which obviously affects what SW’s want to do for BI
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
Given that it is contextual this can be both positive and negative for #socialwork & families involved #swscmedia.
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia thendecide if they had capacity what would they do by gathering info its imperfect but whats the alternative?
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
Question is how would we go about defining it & making it clearer. I dont know. Concern is also that it makes >>> #swscmedia
1 minute ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
>>> that based on a technicality a child or young person could end up not receiving the protection they need #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
So How would you define “Best Interest” either legalistically or from humanistic, or #socialwork #socialcare perspective? #swscmedia
lillieputian Lillieputian
@SWSCmedia in my #socialcare role ‘best interests’ taken to mean the most independent lifestyle appropriate for each individual #swscmedia
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
Letting clients determine “best interest” promotes self-determination.#swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat agree with problems around definition similar in CF services. #swscmedia
ajacob200 Ashley J
#swscmedia best interest = allowing ‘client’ to voice what they want, but guiding them in a way which would be beneficial to them & …
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
And as much as possible ppl should be involved in determining their interest–even when difficult to do @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat Problem with def. is well document & the lack of definition has positive and negative aspects from a practical view #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
@S_Lahr #swscmedia think UK n USA run different systems best interests only comes in if person lacks capacity to make that decision
ajacob200 Ashley J
#swscmedia … includes what they want to an extent as long as it will be positive for them
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
in my placement, best interest is both humanistic in the form of ‘personal budgets’ #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@S_Lahr agree with this but from a C&F perspective the child and or young person cannot always do this #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
..and legalistic as quoted by the LA ‘putting it in the SU’s hands’ #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia Is this the Community Care Act?
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
Young ppl can be involved more than we let them in US…it requires skill in working with them on this @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat Oh I see @S_Lahr was offering a US perspective. Would be interested to know more about differences in systems. #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia u do have to take a legalistic approach due to perhaps having to stand up the decision in court if its a capacity issue
ajacob200 Ashley J
@SWSCmedia assess their needs & rights, and decide what outcome would promote a positive outlook for the future #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
#swscmedia Nick B gives a couple of great examples of dilemas in his blog posting – sometimes no answers
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia not sure the way it works for Adults but I would use the welfare check list & CIN assessment framework DOH helps 2 set #swscmedia
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
@444blackcat #swscmedia yes, “best interest” takes on an entirely new meaning in that situation.
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork it would. The term best interest is often used too much and also out of context. #swscmedia
jaxrafferty Jackie Rafferty
what is your take when best interests contradict for connected/related individuals? #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia >>> the tone but at times there are deliminas as@NickBerbiers article shows #swscmedia & it is contextual and subjective
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
#SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia by determining Sustainability, Autonomy/Choice and not forgetting human rights for both adults/children.
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia >>> the #socialwork values & ethics and morals are very important here #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
I get concerned about “best interest” promoting social control/cultural norms for ppl who are not living the norm@SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
#socialwork & #socialcare practitioners are expected to promote SU best interest. But, how do they determine such best interest? #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia if its issue where they have capacity u lay out option n y u think 1 is better than other but their decision
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@jaxrafferty ha really difficult one Jax *puts on thinking cap* #swscmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
Best interest means what’s appropriate at the time #swscmedia
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ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia - it should be like the thread that runs through all fabric
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
#swscmedia when conflicting interests clearly complex, certainly importt to consider indep advocate for all , particulary if legal MCA issu
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@jaxrafferty becomes an issues of needs and risks, who’s needs are paramount & what risk are u managing? #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@njsmyth agree with that. Easy to hang a state control hat on best interest #swscmedia
racchyb Rachael Bailie
@SWSCmedia its different for every client. I believe they should have a say in the best option for them #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@jaxrafferty in Fam & Child – Child’s needs always paramount but same delimina still crops us #swscmedia v difficult always to give >>
Pynda0 Pinda
@lillieputian @SWSCmedia @ProfSocialWork thanks for the warm welcome !! #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@jaxrafferty definitive answers cause #socialwork always so contextual & many diff factors need to be examined. #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@racchyb as much say in their own future as feasible #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia Appreciating tension between practitioners’, users’ and carers’ perspectives on best interests is a key challenge #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@racchyb @SWSCmedia agree context is so important and also makes #socialwork challenging #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@lillieputian @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia also the Putting People First document, or is that out dated now?
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia i think it is for SU to define whats in their best interest not SW we just advise on what options are there
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@racchyb @SWSCmedia here values and ethics also come into play as well as societal norms and gov agenda #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@secretsw @njsmyth #swscmedia before the MCA it was very difficult to argue against some authority eg consultants and hospital discharge
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secretsw secret social worker
Good ethics and values core to beat interests decisions and making them best reflect the needs and wishes of clients #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw @racchyb yes agree a child for instance is at a disadvantage due to their vulnerability in comparison with an adult #swscmedia
jaxrafferty Jackie Rafferty
I think that is right may well be diff social workers involved with others too for one family across generations @ProfSocialWork #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw @racchyb children cannot always express their feelings and views or may be too scared too #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
In US “death with dignity” movement has come up against social control/best interest @SWSCmedia ht.ly/8EVac #SWSCmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork true but time and good social work skills and instinct can gain a lot I terms of wishes and feelings #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia its one of the most challenging aspects of the role n takes time to accept that ppl will make what we think r unwise decisions
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@ProfSocialWork @secretsw @racchyb #swscmedia same with people with Learning Disabilities but if given time and independence can get there
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
@SWSCmedia have to run to a deans’ mtg..may peek in from there.. #SWSCmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
@ProfSocialWork @secretsw @racchyb it’s important to recognize that & get creative art therapy play therapy #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
great topic for today’s debate; sorry I’m late.. #SWSCMedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw agree & that is vitally important & my point is that best interest cannot simply be what the service users wants #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@njsmyth @SWSCmedia #swscmedia interesting society needs to debate these things – in USA is law allowing death and dignity? Joe
vickydixon SW Student
hello lovely people, sorry for my tardiness. stupid life getting in the way! #SWSCmedia
secretsw secret social worker
So maybe the best interests thing is as much about a trusting and open social work relationship with the individual/group #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw due to these complexities inherent in child protection #socialwork #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
and what you feel may be in their best interest is not what the SU wants. So how is that conflict resolved? #SWSCmedia@SWSCmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@ProfSocialWork @secretsw @racchyb Someone mentioned earlier the need for advocates. Should be available, Nushra@swscmedia #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@Pynda0 @secretsw @racchyb yes, these tools can be a life saver for some agree #swscmedia
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
@GoddenJoe @ProfSocialWork @secretsw @racchyb Key word: TIME. Best interest, IMO, isn’t determined w/ 1 assessment and 1 meeting #swscmedia
HackSocialWork Hack Social Work
I’m in the middle of my work-day, but I am (sorta) following #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
Hi @vickydixon nice to ‘see’ you … WELCOME #swscmedia
vickydixon SW Student
navigating what is in the best interest of each person involved is a real challenge – every situation is different #SWSCmedia
444blackcat bc
@ProfSocialWork #swscmedia agreed but u can only promote best interests not impose at times have to let ppl “fail” in eyes of system
secretsw secret social worker
@ManishaMahen sometimes those conflicts cannot be resolved but perhaps back to the open and honest thing again #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Who determines the SU best interst? Does SU always know what is best for them so long as they don’t lack MH capacity? #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @secretsw @racchyb @swscmedia Hi Nushra #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
Some states, like Oregon, allow it. @GoddenJoe @SWSCmedia #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @secretsw @racchyb @swscmedia agree advocates so important to ensure every1 feel represented #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@ManishaMahen @SWSCmedia Decisions can be torturous. practitioners require thoughtful supervision to help make diff. decisions #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@SWSCmedia in terms of children they often know more than sws give them credit for. But in the end younger children struggle #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
@DorleeM Don’t worry & welcome… We are talking about who defines best interest & how to determine best interest? #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat Agree but it depends on that threshold. In FC we use the term ‘in the best interest of the child’ during court #swscmedia>>>
BASW_UK BASW
@ProfSocialWork @secretsw @racchyb @swscmedia Hi ProfSW Good debate so far. nushra #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
Advocates can be important it can be a little overcrowded around a SU if they are always involved #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia Best interests have to be ‘negotiated’ and cannot be objectively defined. Ideally they are collectively defined #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia the freedom to make what others see as unwise decisions is vital our role is ensuring they have choices
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat basically when we use courts to enforce something #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia I don’t think that I even know what’s best for me and I would certainly need help defining it for myself! #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork ye but legal definitions and SW ones are sometimes not that compatible. worried some sws hide behind law #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@444blackcat but of course can be used more generally #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@scf1072 @SWSCmedia Absolutely, this has to be a central ingredient and often when things go wrong this is absent. Nushra#swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@mgoat73 totally agree. I have no idea really. And it’s a movable feast. Sometimes daily. #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
@ProfSocialWork #swscmedia perhaps different YP but is that because we r saying they lack capacity so others will have to decide for them
Pynda0 Pinda
@secretsw @swscmedia kids struggle w/I proper ways of coping sometimes they don’t understand how to talk about it #swscmedia
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
As an advocate for victims of domestic violence, it’s sometimes VERY hard for me to let my clients steer their own paths. #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@mgoat73 @SWSCmedia Agree, it’s those negotiations that’s so difficult though #swscmedia soft skills, analytic mind & caring attitude
jaxrafferty Jackie Rafferty
Have to excuse me. Have to duck out now. In my ‘best interest’ #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
@GoddenJoe @njsmyth @SWSCmedia I think the answer is that it depends…sometimes yes, when there is enough legal documentation…#SWSCMedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw agree, c earlier tweet about problems around definition. #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
@mgoat73 Excellent point & a real challenge. #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork well said. Nice analysis #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw I think SW are really bad at understanding the law#swscmedia & most forget the different parts of the law that they dont use.
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
So far mentioned BI for adults and children – is this also the same for Carers? #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@S_Lahr Agreed. I think the same applies to working with people with psychosis #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@jaxrafferty See you later #swscmedia :-)
BASW_UK BASW
@mgoat73 @SWSCmedia I think it is in my son’s best interest he goes to bed now, but not in line with his wishes and feelings!#swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
@SWSCmedia @ProfSocialWork thanks; I’m catching up difficult questions… no easy answers…don’t think there is 1 answer.. #SWSCmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ManishaMahen good point. Often carers left out of that loop. And the certainly could be conflicts there #swscmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Perhaps, the collective nature of defining best interest is central to both its process of definition as well as its outcomes. #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
Would like to hear from someone who has worked in both Adults & Children & what area is more complex when defining BI #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
Think each case requires thoughtful analysis…as well as ethical implications #SWSCmedia
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
Then, how do U resolve situations where there is a conflict between SU’s desires & family’s wishes & what U think may be best? #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@DorleeM @SWSCmedia agree also interested 2 know Adults Vs. Children the key challenges for both & to what degree they r the same #swscmedia
ajacob200 Ashley J
@DorleeM @SWSCmedia @ProfSocialWork Im struggling with the questions tonight 
Difficult! #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@secretsw @ManishaMahen #swscmedia good point about carers – so much to think about that forgot this vital area – conciliation arbitration!
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@jaxrafferty #swscmedia sorry I’m late! totally agree with u, advocates job is to relay what the SU finds difficult to communicate
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia I feel in CF services & area we have a clearer criteria for outcomes what do adult SWers think? #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@secretsw agree Carers are left out of ‘the loop’ or quite often ‘unheard’ of and ‘hard to find’ @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia So was the BI?
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork I’d say adults when I worked in mental health. But each grouping has it’s problems in definition. #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@DorleeM @SWSCmedia @ProfSocialWork I would go with that. sometimes, it’s a fine line and endless debate. Nushra #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia I say the same to my daughters every night, but they also don’t think it’s in their best interests! #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@GoddenJoe @secretsw Thank you – passionate about it and fortunate to be working on it at my 1st SW placement. #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia
secretsw secret social worker
the idea of best interests in terms of the group and or community is an interesting one in a society that is individualistic #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia Yes – but challenge is acknowledging where the power lies in the decision making process #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia in CP it is all about protecting the child. Many times families disagree & it makes it more difficult but child must #swscmedia >
BASW_UK BASW
@ajacob200 @DorleeM @SWSCmedia @ProfSocialWork That’s good as we struggle with these issues in real time so as it should be #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@secretsw I don’t agree we have an individualistic society! #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia >>> come first due to the vulnerability & if not prioritised we can be looking at life and death situations #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
Involved in work with people from African cultures where the family and community is seen as more important than individual #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia Dont want to be alarmist or over dramatic but #socialworkers do save lives #swscmedia Fact!!
lillieputian Lillieputian
@SWSCmedia Isn’t always ‘right’ answer, in my role agree to 2 disagree, try SU’s choice with agreement that there will be reviews #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@mgoat73 @SWSCmedia Oh dear! And I always bang on about the rights of adults usurping children’s! Nushra #swscmedia
swscot swscot
@ProfSocialWork #SWSCmedia & lots of people forgetting who the client is n going with the 1 that shouts loudest which is often not SU/yo
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
So when there are conflicts & disagreements do U go w/ where the power lies? How do U reconcile & decide between different views? #swscmedia
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secretsw secret social worker
@ManishaMahen may have to disagree on that ones certainly in terms of SW practice and legal framework Based on individual mainly #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@secretsw Yes I was saying in regards to the Asian Community and you took the words from my mouth. #SWSCmedia@SWSCmedia Agree!!!
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot can I please frame your tweet and hang it in the office #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork certainly do and in cp quite often. #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@secretsw #swscmedia fascinating do you think that applied to the traveller evictions, traveller issues? Joe
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
Yes, child rights r key RT @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Oh dear! And I always bang on about rights of adults usurping childrens! Nushra #SWSCmedia
444blackcat bc
@secretsw #swscmedia we have argued that carers should have separate SW to SU for this lots of conflict
S_Lahr Stephanie Lahr
Today’s #swscmedia debate encouraged me to dust of my @naswCode of Ethics. Much needed.
40 seconds ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@secretsw agree Carers are left out of ‘the loop’ or quite often ‘unheard’ of and ‘hard to find’ @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia So was the BI?
444blackcat bc
@secretsw #swscmedia we have argued that carers should have separate SW to SU for this lots of conflict
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia Ultimately if often lies with the social worker to make that decision, but their power must not go unacknowledged #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@secretsw #swscmedia but we must not be ultimately relativist – abuse is abuse as defined by UK law social workers ducked this in the past
BASW_UK BASW
@Pynda0 @secretsw @swscmedia Or r not enabled 2 express themselves becos of absence of direct work and therapeutic intervention. #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@GoddenJoe that’s a real tricky one. Yes in many ways but I have mixed feelings and a lack of knowledge in terms of travellers #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
Motivational interviewing and other similar techniques can be used… However situation is diff when a child is in danger…#SWSCMedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot >>> I think #socialworkers should know and trust themselves and focus on the client #swscmedia but easier said then done!
1 minute ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ajacob200 Ashley J
@DorleeM Agree here, we’re about promoting the interests of the client, not hiding their voice #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@secretsw I agree with the SW aspect, but don’t think the society we live in is individualistic. #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw @GoddenJoe I have worked with traveller families are you talking about collective vs individual mindsets? #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@GoddenJoe abuse is abuse but apart from severe cases it is nearly always relative But it so often depends of the viewpoint of SW#swscmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
@BASW_UK @secretsw @swscmedia good point #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw @GoddenJoe & the role of the community & status and positioning within the community. #swscmedia
lillieputian Lillieputian
@SWSCmedia surely SW’s role to is ensure power lies with SU first, unless a real concern over safety #swscmedia
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ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@secretsw @GoddenJoe Community can be seen as more important than individual this can also be related to some cultures. #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
But what’s “best” is the issue too.In US growing controversy on use of psychotropic meds–r they ever best? #swscmedia@SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
Sometimes you have to go with your gut. #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@lillieputian or to empower and push hard to unsure SU has a much influence over own destiny as feasibly possible #swscmedia
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@444blackcat @secretsw agree with having separate SW, is this where advocacy can help? #swscmedia
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@ProfSocialWork @secretsw @GoddenJoe Thank you – ‘community’ rounds it all up what I was trying to say! #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@lillieputian @SWSCmedia agree but I think from a CP point of view we are very risk focused and there is a tension in balancing #swscmedia
45 seconds ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
@SWSCmedia Well SW do like to have a needs led approach, but nowadays it maybe becoming resource led? Budget Cuts ~ hr we go agn! #SWSCmedia
secretsw secret social worker
Timeline crashing all over the place so may go quiet #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
RT @njsmyth Good question: use of psychotropic meds–r they ever best? #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia dangerous situations for the vulnerable child at risk #swscmedia or social work can fail to address this issues >>>
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@scf1072 @SWSCmedia However, SWrs needs to be aware of their power and the effect of this on their relationship with SU #swscmedia 2/2
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@444blackcat for sure. Informed decisions so important to become a well rounded person? It happens to all of us #swscmedia
6 minutes ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia by doing so abuse continues so the idea of power is difficult and complex #swscmedia >>>
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
@DorleeM SU = Service User | Sorry if it was unclear… #swscmedia
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swscot swscot
@SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia assessment always based on needs, decision is shared multi-agency and then can be influenced by resources
lillieputian Lillieputian
@SWSCmedia Should be led by SU’s needs but in real world both have to be balanced, but whenever poss the option must be SU 1st #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@SWSCmedia @njsmyth Important we are honest about our fears in this work through the medium of good supervision to guide us.#swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSocialWork I think that relates to your previous point about social workers trusting their own skills and experience #swscmedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
Determining “best” requires staying abreast of changing practice/research & we often don’t have consensus #SWCWmedia @SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@SWSCmedia & not spoken about enough in child protection circles #swscmedia which is NOT really good for the profession I think
SWSCmedia SWSCmedia
In your experience: Do you think advocacy helps or hinders definition of SU’s Best Interest? #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot agree, C my tweets about power & how it is very complex. Aggressive ppl get power through aggression #swscmedia >>>
swscot swscot
@SWSCmedia #SWSCmedia depressingly tho it’s often ‘least worst’ rather than best when making decisions
lillieputian Lillieputian
@444blackcat @Pynda0 capacity should be looked at for each descision, but risk taking is how we learn and a part of life #swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@scf1072 Yes. Although straying off the BI issue, I think reciprocity is key to relationship-building, but power gets in the way #swscmedia
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@SWSCmedia good independent advocacy v important. We have a peer & self advocacy service for ppl with LD #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@S_Lahr @nasw New BASW code of ethics out so you can get a non dusty version – go to web site Joe #swscmedia
DorleeM Dorlee M
@SWSCmedia @444blackcat thanks #SWSCMedia
njsmyth Nancy J. Smyth
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia I agree…good supervision is vital #SWSCmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot I see it in practice the abusive parent that is abusive to everyone. Intimidation & harrassement! This gives them power #swscmedia >
junglie Julie Davies
@GoddenJoe @Pynda0 this is why we need good advocacy – even when people know what they want their choices are not heard #SWSCmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia depends on the advocates knowledge have seen some simply repeat impossible requests of SU result no further forward
ManishaMahen Manisha Patel
See you all soon – got to go! Many thanks to all for your rich and informative comments at the #SWSCmedia debate @SWSCmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia We need to be honest about the power and authority we have as professionals with service users.#swscmedia
mgoat73 Martin Webber
@SWSCmedia Advocacy can usefully magnify otherwise disempowered perspectives #swscmedia
essex_ehsc Ross Spencer
Sorry I missed you guys @swscmedia tonight. I hope the debate was positive and I’m looking forward to next week! #swscmedia
lillieputian Lillieputian
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia I can only speak from LD viewpoint, with children I understand the focus on risk #swscmedia
vickydixon SW Student
@SWSCmedia There seems to be a lack of advocates to either help or hinder! #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
@444blackcat agree with that it often find advocacy in terms of c and f is a hindrance and can cause more problems #swscmedia
ProfSocialwork From The Gut
@swscot in a certain sense as they create a climate of fear #swscmedia but literature in SW needs to address this. #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
#swscmedia n some not knowing who has ability to make decision in cases of detained pts
47 seconds ago Favorite Retweet Reply
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@SWSCmedia advocates job is to communicate what the person finds difficult to. #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@EmpowerDerby @SWSCmedia #swscmedia We must push for good independent advocacy that involves service users in providing the advocacy
47 seconds ago Favorite Retweet Reply
Pynda0 Pinda
@junglie @goddenjoe or their choices are rejected, as of the client doesn’t have a say #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot but this is not addressed & then this is problem for all esp the child or vulnerable person #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@ScottDuffy @SWSCmedia and sadly in other parts of social work services with children and adults. Nushra #swscmedia
GoddenJoe Joe Godden
@vickydixon @SWSCmedia #swscmedia as a student find out what the problem is is it LA and health not commissioning properly?
secretsw secret social worker
A little bit of knowledge is dangerous as they say and I too often find that to be true with people trying to assist #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia 1. difference between stat and vol SWers. 2. Agree Stat SW have authority. 3. look at serious case reviews #swscmedia
vickydixon SW Student
@GoddenJoe @EmpowerDerby @SWSCmedia Well trained, skilled advocates are priceless…they just cost a lot to create! #swscmedia
45 seconds ago Favorite Retweet Reply
swscot swscot
@ProfSocialWork #SWSCmedia def makes it more diff to challenge, esp when in their home. Agree with ur point re case reviews n arg for gd sup
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@GoddenJoe @swscmedia totally agree Joe. Our service is totally voluntary. It’s all about the voice of the person #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Social workers in some circumstances were scared of parents & do not do their job properly because of fear #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@EmpowerDerby @SWSCmedia Sometimes, sitting silently by someone gives them the strength to speak out. Nushra #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia All #socialworkers in child deaths had authority but did not use authority at certain points because of fear #swscmedia
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@vickydixon @goddenjoe @swscmedia I work as an independent advocate, but gave set up this peer & self advocacy to help it grow #swscmedia
lillieputian Lillieputian
@Pynda0 @swscmedia I work with ppl with LD’s, for yrs there has been tendancy to infantilise pple, managed risk can enhance life #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia I’m not disputing the authority. Talking about whether social workers always feel comfortable 2 use authority #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@lillieputian @SWSCmedia Categories – most are both service uers and someone else. We need humane,wise practice which doesn’t ‘other’ anyone
vickydixon SW Student
@GoddenJoe #SWSCmedia vol sector funding cuts -we have 2 advocates within our team-stretched to breaking, cant even find £ train volunteers!
Pynda0 Pinda
At the end of the day we are a resource provide guidance some take it others reject it and some decide if they want to listen #swscmedia
swscot swscot
@ProfSocialWork @basw_uk @swscmedia #SWSCmedia also fear of management has been an issue when SWer tries to advocate for kids needs
vickydixon SW Student
@BASW_UK @EmpowerDerby @SWSCmedia I agree – often they just want someone who has their back. Doesnt sound much to ask! #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@BASW_UK @SWSCmedia if yes fine! If not then why? R there elements of power that we are missing? #swscmedia
BASW_UK BASW
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia Too true. Bullying culture not helped. Sws need permission to talk about how work makes them feel. #swscmedia
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@BASW_UK @swscmedia I totally agree. I’ve often just attended & never had to say a word, unconditional support #swscmedia
secretsw secret social worker
As a person who represented children in court I know that SU representation is moving backwards, fast. Not enough checks on state #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@swscot @basw_uk @swscmedia fully agree #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Yes and a lot of parents are scared of social workers too. Not a good settlement and needs opening up.
junglie Julie Davies
@Pynda0 @goddenjoe exhausting negotiating with others the individuals right to decide, its an eyeopener 4 many of our student sw #swscmedia
claudiamegele Claudia Megele
@ProfSueWhite Excellent point. How can we guide/assist practitioners to best recognise/define SU best interest?@SWSCmedia #swscmedia
saeedmehbub SMP
@SWSCmedia sometimes children take advantage of ‘advocacy’. Its about reading between the lines. Each situation is different #swscmedia
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@ProfSueWhite @BASW_UK @SWSCmediaYes agree & sometimes that fear can cause reactions that are extreme. Fear needs 2 be addressed #swscmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
@junglie @goddenjoe it’s a tough battle at times draining even #swscmedia
lillieputian Lillieputian
@Pynda0 Definately, concept of best interest can mean different things to different people, impossible to generalise #swscmedia
claudiamegele Claudia Megele
Final 7 min. What’s the way forward & how can practitioners be best guided/assisted in order to recognise/define SU best interst? #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Has to be learned not exhorted – times and places for authority, most times and places for ‘how are you’
BASW_UK BASW
@ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia to some extent uncertainty created by society’s ambiguity about sws rights to intervene.#swscmedia
Pynda0 Pinda
@lillieputian no situation is ever the same yet we do generalize situations it’s buzzard clients aren’t looked at individually #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
Have a conversation with people – don’t lecture before you’ve found out. Worry about the parent, worry about the family as well as child.
secretsw secret social worker
@ProfSueWhite and they have good reason to be. The good social worker makes every effort to gain trust but must be acknowledged #swscmedia
EmpowerDerby Empower LD Derby
@claudiamegele goal setting, updating care plans, life planning? #swscmedia
claudiamegele Claudia Megele
@scf1072 @ProfSueWhite Definitely. But, Q is how can we best train practitioners to recognise & assiste SU to define BI? #swscmedia
444blackcat bc
@claudiamegele #swscmedia ensure they recognize autonomy of individual is starting point that having ppl on caseload donst make them yours
claudiamegele Claudia Megele
Sorry @SWSCmedia has maxed out its’ daily tweets. Last 3 minutes. #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@BASW_UK @ProfSocialWork @SWSCmedia anbivalence is a good thing. No social worker at my door unless I’ve asked for one and you can quote me
Pynda0 Pinda
Education/ training role playing. Lead by example. #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Prof judgement no space – no change – the civil service are in charge. Period.
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@ProfSueWhite @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia 1st Rule ‘Do No Harm’ I’m talking about when children are already on cp plans & things escalating.
20 hours ago Favorite Retweet Reply
secretsw secret social worker
trust, openness, honesty, skills, experience as well as underpinning values of empowerment and a wish to help not punish #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @swscot Yes that’s true, but I say agian, would you welcome you with all your powers. What help are you offering?
lillieputian Lillieputian
@Pynda0 think fear of getting it wrong & safety in familiarity leads us to this, start with each individual & their best interest #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia Prof judgement no space – no change – the civil service are in charge. Period.
Pynda0 Pinda
@lillieputian fear wears many hats and causes us to make rushed decisions. #swscmedia
1 minute ago Favorite Retweet Reply
claudiamegele Claudia Megele
On behalf of @SWSCmedia I Thank U for ur ideas & a lively debate. The debate is now closed. #SWSCmedia @SWSCmedia has maxed out daily limit.
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@ProfSueWhite @BASW_UK @SWSCmedia with civil service you mean the local authority?
20 hours ago Favorite Retweet Reply
lillieputian Lillieputian
@Pynda0 or freezes us, allowing repetition of less positive decisions #swscmedia
ProfSueWhite Susan White
@ProfSocialWork @swscot Yes that’s true, but I say agian, would you welcome you with all your powers. What help are you offering?
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@ProfSueWhite @swscot Llimited help the government offers which usually is not enough but SU needs 2 take some of the responsibility also >>
20 hours ago Favorite Retweet Reply
ProfSocialWork From The Gut
@ProfSueWhite @swscot otherwise it is not an empowering. Work with people & not on them. Responsibility 4 change needs 2 be shared…?
20 hours ago Favorite Retweet Reply
