Project Description

The project seeks to reinvigorate social work in Dorset by ‘getting it right for the child first time’, achieved by implementing an outcome-focused practice model of social work.

The approach places a high value on relationship building between children and social workers. ‘Better conversations’ and relationships with our partners help to ensure families are getting the right support at the right time. An outcomes-focused approach gives an opportunity for clear and consistent assessment, planning, implementation and reviewing of direct work with children and families.

A 12-week programme for all social workers supports job skill development through training, coaching and action learning methods. To minimise disruption to the families receiving support, a dedicated social work team provides additional capacity for teams who have social workers on the programme. Evidence-informed practice tools and strengths-based approaches such as restorative practice and appreciative inquiry are used to enact the outcomes model.

Evaluation

DfE funded independent evaluation will be published in 2020.