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In the UK, the shortage of skilled social workers is a pressing concern. Most English councils struggle to recruit and retain social workers. It impacts the quality of care and support for vulnerable individuals. Social work and social care are areas of concern as services are projected to continue to see an increase in demand over the coming years.
At the start of the year, the UK Government unveiled a £600 million support package for local councils, with a £500 million boost to the Social Care Grant. This initiative aims to reinforce social care budgets and increase the core spending power for all councils by a minimum of 4%.
Retention and recruitment remain a challenge in 2024. In recent years, social workers have quit in record numbers as they struggle to cope with more challenging caseloads, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the cost of living crisis. In 2022, 5400 social workers left the profession, marking a 9% increase compared to 2021.
In 2023, Community Care launched a campaign to champion the social work profession. The Choose Social Work campaign showcases the brilliant work social workers do every day. It is one of many initiatives to encourage an uptake in social work careers.
On a global scale, World Social Work Day takes place on 19th March 2024. It celebrates the transformative role of social workers. This year’s theme is ‘Buen Vivir: Shared Future for Transformative Change’, which is rooted in the Global Social Work Agenda and emphasises the need for social workers to adopt innovative, community-led approaches.
While there is much going on to entice more social workers to the profession, recruitment in social care remains a challenge. And one that a specialist social work recruitment agency can help with.
1. Understanding the sector
Social care recruitment agencies have an in-depth understanding of the social work landscape. From regulations and sector-specific nuances to the latest trends, social work agencies are well-versed in social work complexities. Specialised knowledge ensures that you are connected with candidates who have the necessary qualifications and align with the values your organisation needs.
2. Access to skilled social work professionals
Finding the right social worker isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about making a positive impact on lives. Collaborating with a social work recruitment agency means tapping into an extensive network of skilled professionals. Morgan Hunt maintains close ties with diverse candidates, ranging from those with experience with local authorities to those from private organisations. This opens doors to various opportunities that may not be accessible through conventional recruitment methods. You can choose from a pool of candidates who align with your organisation's mission and values.
3. Specialist support
One of the key benefits of engaging with a social care recruitment agency is the personalised process. A social work agency invests time in understanding your organisation's needs and culture. By understanding your requirements, they ensure a fit between your team and the selected candidates. This contributes to the effectiveness of your organisation by placing individuals in roles where they can thrive and contribute.
At Morgan Hunt, we recruit for all positions, from front-line staff to management, in sectors including homelessness, mental health, supported housing, young people, and domestic violence. Each sector has a dedicated consultant with specific knowledge and expertise in their field.
4. Streamlined recruitment process
Time is of the essence when you need to fill critical social work positions quickly. For social work clients seeking to strengthen their teams, partnering with a specialised recruitment agency streamlines the hiring process. Morgan Hunt conducts candidate background checks and meticulously pre-screens and vet candidates. This saves your organisation time, budget, and resources. By entrusting the recruitment process to experts, you can concentrate on delivering essential care and support, secure in the knowledge that your team is backed by skilled social care professionals.
5. Helping to fill skills-short areas
The scale of the crisis in children’s social work was shown in figures for 2022 published by the Department for Education. It shows the number of professionals has fallen for the first time since data collection began in 2017 – despite rising need. The Local Government Association 2022 Workforce Survey revealed that more than 8 in 10 councils have difficulties recruiting children’s social workers. Eighty-three per cent of authorities said they had difficulties recruiting children’s social workers. Morgan Hunt has a strong track record of partnering with children’s services across the UK to recruit talented and passionate social workers from overseas into permanent front-line positions.
The findings also revealed that 7 in 10 struggled to recruit adult social care workers. Local authorities’ use of agency social workers in adults’ services rose by a quarter from September 2022 to September 2023, according to Skills for Care figures. To fill gaps in these areas, social work agencies in the UK can help.
6. Continued support post-placement
The relationship doesn’t end once a social worker is hired. Social care recruitment agencies provide ongoing support, ensuring a smooth transition for the social care worker and your organisation. From onboarding to addressing challenges, agencies are committed to long-term success.
A social work recruitment agency can offer a long-term solution to improve your hiring strategy. We all understand the critical role that social care workers play in supporting vulnerable individuals and communities. Whether you’re part of a local authority, charity, the NHS, or housing association, having access to skilled and dedicated social workers is vital.
At Morgan Hunt, we recruit for public-sector social care jobs as well as private-sector recruitment in areas including:
If you'd like to discuss your current social care recruitment campaign and how we can help, contact us. https://www.morganhunt.com/pages/social-care
Fostering inclusivity is not just a choice; it’s the right thing to do, and it also makes business sense too. Creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their sexuality, feels accepted and valued is crucial for the success and well-being of both employees and the organisation as a whole. In this blog post, we'll explore practical steps to make your workplace more LGBTQ+ inclusive, embracing the principles of respect, understanding, and teamwork.
Importance of Inclusivity
Inclusivity is not just a buzzword; it's a cornerstone for a thriving and successful workplace. Embracing diversity, including individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities, contributes significantly to an organisation's innovation, creativity, and overall success. When employees feel valued for who they are, irrespective of their background, they bring their authentic selves to work, leading to increased engagement and productivity. Inclusive workplaces also foster a sense of belonging, reducing turnover and attracting top talent. Moreover, an inclusive environment encourages diverse perspectives, which is vital for problem-solving and decision-making. By prioritising inclusivity, organisations not only create better working environments for their employees but also position themselves as socially responsible and forward-thinking entities.
Understanding the current landscape of diversity and inclusion in the UK workplace is essential for driving positive change. According to a study by Stonewall, a leading LGBTQ+ rights organisation:
These statistics underscore the need for continuous efforts in creating inclusive workplaces where all employees feel accepted, supported, and free to be themselves. By addressing these challenges, organisations can take meaningful steps towards building a truly inclusive culture that reflects the diverse tapestry of the workforce in the UK.
So how can organisations promote inclusivity? We have put together our 14 practical steps to foster LGBTQ+ Inclusivity.
Building a more LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace is not just a goal; it's a journey. By embracing diversity, promoting understanding, and fostering a sense of belonging, organisations can create environments where everyone can truly thrive. Remember, it's not about meeting quotas; it's about inspiring working lives by making every employee feel valued, respected, and included. As we take these steps together, we pave the way for a future where workplaces reflect the rich tapestry of the diverse and vibrant communities we serve.
If you and your organisation would like further advice on how to build an inclusive workplace for the LGBTQ+ community, or any diverse group for that matter, reach out us at info@morganhunt.com. You can find out more about Morgan Hunt’s Diversity and Inclusion work here: www.morganhunt.com/pages/diversity-and-inclusion
In today’s current climate, especially when taking into consideration the cost-of-living-crisis, companies are increasingly recognising the importance of fostering financial wellbeing among their employees. Financial stress can significantly impact an individual's overall well-being, leading to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and a decline in job satisfaction.
The intricate connection between finances and mental health is a well-established reality. In the UK, individuals facing financial challenges often experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression. The burden of debt, the pressure to make ends meet, and the uncertainty surrounding future financial stability can take a toll on one's mental and emotional well-being. This intersection is particularly significant in the workplace, as financial stress can permeate into professional life, impacting focus, decision-making, and overall job satisfaction. Recognising this interplay is crucial for employers aiming to create a supportive and thriving work environment.
Employers should have a vested interest in the financial wellbeing of their staff, as it directly correlates with the overall health of the organisation. Financially stressed employees are more likely to experience decreased job satisfaction and engagement, leading to lower productivity levels. The impact is not confined to the individual; it ripples through the entire workplace, affecting team dynamics and organisational culture. High levels of financial stress can contribute to increased absenteeism and employee turnover, in turn, elevating recruitment and training costs.
Moreover, businesses that prioritise the financial wellbeing of their employees are more likely to attract and retain top talent, fostering a positive reputation and competitive edge in the job market. In essence, the financial health of employees is intricately tied to the success and sustainability of the business, making it a strategic imperative for employers to proactively address and support the financial wellbeing of their workforce.
Employers have the power to improve both the financial and mental wellbeing of their workforce, as well as their productivity, by introducing new processes or resources that build financial resilience, creating a culture of support and providing essential help once problems have set in.
Promoting financial wellbeing in the workplace is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in the success and sustainability of a company. By implementing thoughtful initiatives, companies can empower their employees to achieve financial stability, leading to a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce. As we move forward, let us recognise that the health of a business is intricately tied to the financial health of its employees.
The role of women in the workforce has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. Gone are the days when women were primarily relegated to the role of homemakers. Today, women make up a significant portion of the global workforce, juggling their professional and family responsibilities.
For working mothers, in particular, the challenge of balancing work and family life is a delicate tightrope act. Recent statistics highlight this.
Flexible working arrangements emerged as a lifeline for working mums, providing them with the much-needed flexibility to excel in both their careers and family life.
We've reached out to working mums within the Morgan Hunt team to hear from them about their experiences. Their insights shed light on the unique challenges they face and how flexible working has become an essential tool in their journey to success.
Kirsty Stoddart – Senior Business Manager
In her own words, Kirsty Stoddart sheds light on how flexible working has transformed her work-life balance:
"In terms of flexible working I would say the working pattern I have at the moment really helps with my family life. The fact that I finish at 3pm every day gives me time to see the kids after school and get organised for after school clubs etc without having my head in the laptop at the same time! And when I asked just a few months ago to change my working pattern, it didn’t seem to be an issue to the company or my manager."
She also underscores the crucial role of her manager, Gillies, in supporting her:
"I know it is Morgan Hunt as a company that offers the flexible working, but also I would say the backing I get from Gillies is a massive help too as he is always understanding when 'life' happens and you need to reorganise work, etc."
Kirsty also touches upon the pressure she places on herself as a part-time worker:
"The only other thing I would add is that with working part-time, it is a pressure to achieve and do all parts of your role the same as a full-time member of staff. Not necessarily that anyone is putting pressure on me, but more me putting it on myself if that makes sense!"
Amie Day – Business Manager
Amie Day shares her own challenges as a working mum:
"I have 2 children – 4 years and 2 years old and I find having a career and being a mum very hard and challenging. But Morgan Hunt have made it easier for me by allowing me to work remotely and work 4 days a week so it gives me the time to be at home and flexibility to be there for my children should I need to. It also allows me to manage my own workload and work to suit me and my family."
She emphasises the importance of understanding and support:
"This job is very pressurised and busy, especially being in education at the busiest time of year but having a great manager who is a father himself, he manages to see it through my eyes too. I think more people need to be understanding that not only do we do a good job, but we are a mum to very demanding little people. You need a good team network and support around you who are understanding and considerate."
Annabelle Walster – Business Manager
Annabelle Walster recounts her experience of returning to work after having her second child:
"Returning to work after having my second child was a real shock to the system! It’s difficult to juggle the demands of being a mum whilst still being successful in your career. I am lucky to have had the support of my team in Manchester and in particular my Director, Eliot who has made retuning to work a whole lot easier with his support and understanding he has given me"
She goes on to explain how flexible working has helped her:
"Being able to work in a flexible way has helped me immensely! Living quite a distance from the office, working from home 3 days per week means I get to spend quality time with the children in the evening, something which wouldn’t have been possible before we worked flexibly due to the commute."
Annabelle highlights the challenges of working part-time in a demanding industry:
"Although for me, working 4 days a week is a huge positive, it does present challenges when working in a demanding industry such as recruitment. Having a work from home set up means I can overcome these challenges and speak to my candidates and clients outside typical working hours to ensure my business still runs smoothly!"
Women in the UK are putting in more time at work than ever before thanks to flexible and hybrid working policies that sprang up during the pandemic, an analysis of official data by Bloomberg shows. However despite the numerous benefits of flexible working, challenges remain.
There has been a push to return more workers into the office, which risks undercutting a surge in the hours the women spend on the job.
Hybrid working, such as coming into the office two to three days a week, doesn’t necessarily fall into the flexible working bracket and can bring huge benefits including improved collaboration and enhanced team dynamics. It’s important to strike the right balance and understand the nuances of hybrid and flexible working and what works for the individual.
The concern is that this shift back to the office may affect women disproportionately. The pandemic had increased men's involvement in household responsibilities as more of them worked from home. However, the return-to-office mandates by companies could undermine this progress, creating conflict in two-career households. The reduced flexibility that comes with a return to the office may lead to a less equitable division of household tasks, which in turn can impact equality at home and work. It's a reminder that the benefits of flexible working go beyond gender equality and are vital for a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Working mums are a vital part of the modern UK workforce, and their contributions should be celebrated and supported. Flexible working arrangements provide a lifeline to working mothers, allowing them to excel in their careers while still being there for their families. As society continues to evolve, it's crucial for businesses and policymakers to prioritise and promote flexible working options.
Empowering working mums is not just a matter of gender equality; it's a smart investment in a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce, and a step toward addressing the gender pay gap. If you'd like further advice or guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@morganhunt.com.
On Wednesday 1st November 2023 we ran, ‘Navigating Change: Menopause in the Workplace’, where we were joined by three expert speakers who explored the profound impact of perimenopause and menopause on individuals and their careers.
We discussed:
Watch the full recording below
In an increasingly diverse and inclusive world, companies are becoming more aware of the value of different perspectives and unique talents that neurodiverse employees bring to the table. Neurodiversity refers to the range of neurological differences that encompass conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, among others. To harness the full potential of neurodiverse employees, businesses are recognising the importance of creating neuroinclusion office designs. These environments are not only beneficial for employees with neurological differences but also contribute to a more innovative, creative, and dynamic work culture.
Neuroinclusion office design goes beyond physical spaces; it encompasses a culture of acceptance, respect, and support for neurodiverse employees. Here are some key reasons why it is important:
Neurodiverse employees bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to a team. Recognising and harnessing these benefits can lead to a more dynamic and high-performing workplace:
To create a neuroinclusion office design in the UK, consider the following strategies:
In conclusion, neuroinclusion office design is a critical aspect of fostering a diverse, inclusive, and innovative workplace in the UK. By recognising the value of neurodiverse employees and creating an environment that supports their unique needs, companies can harness the full potential of their teams, improve productivity, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for all employees.
If you want further advice on how to support your neurodiverse employees, contact us at info@morganhunt.com.