With the closure of TCSW creating a debate about the nature of leadership within the social work profession, here Imran shares thoughts and reflections. If you are a practitioner with reflections from the field, send them to us at swansocialwork@gmail.com.
‘When the college bell finally rings and the gates close it will be difficult to say goodbye! I shall not weep and look back rather salute those who fought for excellent practice! Despite the major challenges and obstacles that the college encountered in its path it cannot be said that they did not leave a mark! As one great friend remarked it is not the mechanics rather the engineering that deserves credit. Life no doubt will continue after college, there is no doubt about that!
Sometimes in our moments of disappear and destruction can come great inspiration from things around us. I recall the story of Isaac Newton who discovered the principle of universal gravitation by observing the fall of an apple from a tree. There is a danger, with less becoming lesser and with expectations running on a high, that the social worker is forgotten.
If I were to be asked what I have learnt in my short time as a social worker it would be to never give up rather to always be optimistic. I would encourage social workers to strive forward with hope and to always speak the truth. There is often too much noise and rather less doing going on. Everyone seems to think they know best for what social workers need, rather than incorporating those very people in debate in how to move forward.
Historically, social work has never been allowed to stand up and be counted. It has always taken a group of people to step forward to unite us and to present a strong voice for the vulnerable. The message continues to be the same and has not changed, yet something seems to be lost in translation.
The Magna Carta has given hope to many who face oppression and social work has given a voice to those who yearn for the redress of wrongs.
If social work is ever to be a profession one can be proud of, it’s going to take a united front from all to come together. No longer can it be the case of not working together, rather we must bridge our differences and quickly, to save a profession in despair.
Sometimes a few words can carry a powerful message. So I end with a positive note:
Lets shake hands and start over!’