Featured - SWU Social Workers Union

Social Workers Union (SWU) and ITV News Social Work Survey - accompanied by a photo of rusty swings in a muddy, empty playground

Dec 05

Social workers report poverty crisis for children

The cost-of-living crisis has led to a third of UK social workers witnessing child removals in the past three years where poverty or financial poverty has been a key factor.

Nov 28

Dog whistle narratives – xenophobia

People moving is a fact of life – we always have, and always will. It’s time those who hold positions of power in this country recognised that.

SWU General Secretary John McGowan and SWU National Organiser & Union Contact Manager Jessie Hoskin shaking hands in front of the SWU office in Birmingham

Nov 14

Meet Jessie Hoskin, SWU’s new National Organiser and Union Contact Manager

I’m looking forward to developing our activist members’ confidence, skills, and networks. Now more than ever we need members to play an active part in their union so consider becoming a SWU Union Contact.

John McGowan, SWU General Secretary, said, “I am delighted to have this formal recognition with HNYICB. SWU will be a great addition to the formal bargaining group and I look forward to hearing how this progresses.”

Nov 12

SWU gains formal recognition with HNYICB

We are pleased to announce that SWU has gained formal trade union recognition with the Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (HNYICB).

The logos of the Social Workers Union (SWU) Campaign Fund and the Scottish Association of Social Work (SASW) next to a photo of the Scottish Parliament Building

Oct 29

Progress in Scottish students’ campaign welcomed

Social work students campaigning for bursaries while working on placements in the public sector have welcomed promises made by the Scottish Government, but warned that more still needs to be done.

Oct 17

Celebrating 125 years of the GFTU

From free training to getting involved in the campaign against austerity, make the most of what the General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU) has to offer!

Aug 28

Make Equality Real: Prime Minister replies to SWU

The Make Equality Real coalition looks forwards to working with the Government on delivering the socio-economic duty, reducing poverty, and making austerity unlawful.

Angi Naylor plays her guitar while marching in the "Wages Up - Bills Down -Tories Out!" rally in London on June 6th, 2022 with the Communication Workers Union.

Aug 19

SWU Executive Committee honours Angi Naylor for her contributions to the union and social work

Angi Naylor is a renown BASW / SWU activist, social worker, and folk singer who has been a member of the SWU Executive Committee since the union was formed.

Aug 06

BASW & SWU Statement on the UK riots

BASW and SWU condemn in the strongest possible terms the appalling acts of violence, disorder and racism that have terrorised communities across the country in recent days.

A photo of the General Federation of Trade Unions Educational Trust (GFTU) National Executive, including SWU General Secretary John McGowan, holding up copies of the GFTU Education Programme 2024-2025.

Jul 16

GFTU launches new Education Programme for trade unionists and activists

This training is free for members of affiliated organisations such as SWU, including hotel stays and meals for the residential courses.