Malcolm Carey

Social work, ideology, discourse and the limits of post-hegemony:

• Summary: This article critically examines the problematic status of ideology (and discourse) with regard to social work, and, in relation, questions any contested elevation of sociological theories which suggest we now live in a ‘post-hegemonic’ age. Three types of ideology relating to social work are explored, and it is proposed that such case examples (among others) have, and continue to, maintain a significant influence within state social work. Examples include the role of science, neo-liberalism and professionalism. Each is examined through the work of Althusser, Gramsci and Foucault to underline their significance. • Findings: Within social work there is evidence to support aspects of the social or political fragmentary trends stressed by advocates of a post-hegemony thesis. However, here it is argued instead that reliance upon hegemony has actually increased rather than disappeared as social work has become less structured, more uncertain and increasingly dependent upon unpredictable markets of social care. • Applications: Critical yet careful analysis of the relationship between ideology and social work can help us to increase understanding of social work practice and education.

Here today, gone tomorrow? The ambivalent ethics of contingency social work

In the UK the number of state social workers supplied by independent employment agencies has increased significantly since the mid-1990s. Although state sectors of welfare such as education and health have always relied upon a steady supply of locum staff, there is no such tradition within social work. This paper explores some of the ethical tensions that have become apparent with the expansion of contingency social work. Questions remain about the ‘opportunity cost’ of agency social work, as well as subsequent problems of recruitment, access to training, collegiate relations and any impact upon service users. The paper notes tensions that persist between a push for more flexible labour, the ethics of practitioners and the needs of service users. Recent policy responses which aim to push responsibility back to local authorities and social work managers are also questioned.

The last resort? Similarities and differences between contingent ‘agency’ employment practices in social work and nursing

This article draws from a literature-based survey to detail some of the similarities and differences regarding the use of agency employees within social work and nursing. Empirical evidence suggests that risks tend to outweigh any benefits following any over-reliance upon ‘flexible’ labour. However, greater regulation of such staff has gradually emerged.

The use of professional ‘agency’ social workers: some findings and recommendations from recent research in England

AbstractThis paper looks at some of the findings from empirical research exploring the impact of the increased use of agency staff within statutory social work sectors in England. Alongside the long-term expansion of contingent employees in the delivery of social work the article also acknowledges the more recent greater regulation of the agency social work role. Research clearly indicates that there remain both benefits and drawbacks to the use of contingent labour. Professional locum staff can provide a rapid and reliable response to ongoing staff shortages within core areas of social work; however, they can also pose potential risks and their use suggests an evasion of underlying structural problems relating to staff retention and recruitment. With more regulation of contingent staff and less demand for qualified social workers the period of expansion of professional agency employees appears to be at an end. Nevertheless at least sporadic demand is likely to always remain and the article concludes with...