'London calling': the experiences of international social work recruits working in London

This recruitment of international social workers (ISWs) in England has been primarily aimed at ‘plugging the gaps’ in the child protection services. This paper reports on one aspect of a qualitative research project investigating the post-arrival integration, professional practice and development of...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Hanna, Sue, Lyons, Karen
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Oxford University Press 2017
Subjects:
Online Access:https://repository.londonmet.ac.uk/4573/1/s1-ln1867610249210434-1939656818Hwf-560581282IdV7965793618676102PDF_HI0001.pdf
Description
Summary:This recruitment of international social workers (ISWs) in England has been primarily aimed at ‘plugging the gaps’ in the child protection services. This paper reports on one aspect of a qualitative research project investigating the post-arrival integration, professional practice and development of ‘international social workers’, namely those trained and qualified outside of the UK working in London and the Home Counties. Findings demonstrate that, as well as being a challenging professional and work experience, this form of labour mobility is a profound life event for most ISWs and, as with human migration in other fields and countries, entails a complex social, emotional and cultural transition.