Recentring anti-racist practice in social work education and training in England: a qualitative study

Abstract

Data from nine focus-group discussions is presented here, contained within a larger study. The focus groups involved social work students, academics, practice educators and newly qualified social workers, and explored challenges and opportunities as these emerged from the upsurge of the Black Lives Matter movement and relevant activism following the end of May 2020. The majority of participants do not feel that they have been prepared well for anti-racist practice; more than one third of the respondents has felt discriminated against in their practice; and most claimed that their placement or practice adheres to culturally sensitive practice. This article concludes that a sustained agenda in social work education and training is needed that will address anti-racist practice by name, as well as promote a greater degree of self-awareness and self-understanding of professionals.

Assessing professional integration of clients’ religion and spirituality beliefs in practice

“…The literature suggests that social workers should be aware of, and seek training regarding, clients' religious/spiritual beliefs and practices, particularly those that differ from their own (Band-Winterstein and Freund, 2015). This accords with Pentaris's (2012) comment on the importance of spiritual competency in multifaith societies, as well as professional self-awareness regarding one's own religious/spiritual beliefs and values. Recently, as a result of this understanding, an online spiritual competency training programme was developed across mental health fields (Pearce et al, 2019).…”