Social Work History Network
International Federation of Social Workers event: 24th April 2007
Brief points from discussion (to be read in conjunction with presentations):

Importance of archival material and oral history in tracking how ideologies influencing
social work evolve: official documents often focus on resolutions rather than the
underlying conflicts and tensions that influence final agreements.

Importance of social work solidarity to influence governments and supra-government
organisations about 1) the management of welfare concerns and social work contribution
to such concerns, and 2) the key characteristics of social work and required professional
qualifications. The British government is now using the IFSW definition of social work in
its publications. IFSW - Definition of Social Work

IFSW conferences have tended to have a general theme and provide a market place for
ideas. The plan for 2010, which is being held in partnership with ICSW and IASSW, is to
prepare discussion papers in advance about the future role of social workers and
social problems at a global level and to invite delegates to come with ideas and
reactions, which would be used to inform policy development by IFSW.

A question was raised about how IFSW engages to reduce arms. IFSW has a policy
statement; IFSW - International Statement on Peace and Social Justice. This is not a
current priority and was acknowledged to be an extremely difficult area. Strategies
include: policies on disarmament, influencing social work organisations and seizing
opportunities as these arise.

Irena Sendler, a former social worker has been nominated by IFSW for the Nobel Peace
Prize for her work saving Jewish children during the Second World War. IFSW - IFSW
supports nomination of Irena Sendler for Nobel Peace Prize

Social care regulators around the world met in Munich in 2006: discovered very similar
concerns about deciding who should be included/excluded, professional codes and
conduct. The regulators have agreed to meet at each of the main international
conferences.

Need for social work practitioners to be encouraged to write articles for the
International Journal of Social Work on UK and international concerns: opportunities for
collaborative writing should be explored – e.g. MSc and PhD courses – academics and
students writing together about study outcomes – academics helping students to
understand the art of writing for publication. SAGE Publications - International Social
Work

International journal is seeking to cover more countries and be more accessible. Some
countries do not have constant or reliable electricity supplies and this hampers progress
re web access.

Social work image and changing times! The Charity Organisation Society (COS) (up to
1940s) was known as ‘Cringe Or Starve’ by its clientele. Its replacement – the Family
Welfare Association was later dubbed – ‘Feminists With Attitude’! What now!?
Date of next meeting – theme – Evaluation and Inspection – 5th July 07 1.30
– 4.30 – room 3.52 – KCL - Franklin Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street.
This is of topical as well as historical interest – ALL WELCOME.
Charge about £5 – students FREE.