Events - SWU Social Workers Union

A photo of attendees of the GFTU Summer School 2026 raising their fists in solidarity in front of the GFTU banner

Sep 17

General Federation of Trade Unions Summer School 2026

The GFTU Summer School 2026 taught dozens of workers radical political economy, organising skills, and lessons from our history for today.

Aug 27

Talk to SWU webinar: What we do at SWU and how to get more involved – September 15th

This Talk to SWU webinar session is an opportunity for members to meet our new General Secretary and Interim Chair, learn more about their union, and how to get more involved.

Aug 17

Call for SWU Executive Committee Members

We are looking for SWU members committed to social work and trade unionism, who can represent the decision-making process covering members and offer insight and accountability. Executive Members play a key part in setting SWU’s direction and overseeing its aims Read more

Chrissie Beatty and Dave Callow waving SWU flags at the 28th March 2026 Together march against the far right

Aug 06

A New Chapter for SWU

It is a tremendous honour to be appointed as Interim Chair of the Social Workers Union at such an important moment in our union’s history.

John McGowan, SWU General Secretary from 2016-2026

Aug 03

John McGowan, Social Workers Union General Secretary from 2016–2026

On behalf of members, colleagues, partners and friends of SWU, we thank John McGowan for 10 remarkable years of leadership and dedicated service.

Jul 23

SWU is proud to feature the winners of the SWU Assignment: World Social Work Day 2026 Essay Competition

Four social work students / apprentices have each won a prize of £500 for their outstanding essays on solidarity and hope.

Social Workers Union (SWU) & Neil Thompson Academy

Jul 09

Rising to the Challenges

SWU Ambassador Dr Neil Thompson makes a case for the kind of leadership development our field actually needs.

International Conference Against War - Saturday 20 June 2026, London

Jun 12

SWU and the GFTU are official supporters of the International Conference Against War

Every student and worker, every trade unionist and anti-war activist is invited to join us in London on 20th June 2026.

SWU Campaign Survey and Call for Evidence in solidarity with UK Social Work Educators

Jun 09

Solidarity with Social Work Educators: Support the campaign and take the survey

A profession that teaches advocacy, social justice, and anti-oppressive practice must also be willing to advocate for those who educate its future workforce.

Jun 01

Meet the markers for the SWU Assignment: World Social Work Day 2026 Essay Competition

Social work students and apprentices be sure to submit your entries by June 14th for the chance to win £500.