Care staff morale hit by Baby P

Morale among social workers has dropped and public perceptions of the profession have worsened since the Baby Peter case, new LGA research has found.

The findings of an online survey of councillors in charge of children’s services has prompted LGA fears that falling morale and a poor public image will exacerbate problems with recruitment and retention of social workers, and pose a threat to the safety of vulnerable children.

The survey – sent to 165 councillors in England of whom nearly half responded – found that 93% believe the reporting of the Baby Peter case last November had a negative impact on the way people regard social workers.

Other figures show more than half of councils (60%) feel it has got more difficult to recruit children’s social workers since October 2008. A third (34%) say retention has also worsened, with front line staff the most affected.

Free posters aimed at boosting staff morale are being offered to councils, as part of the LGA’s ‘Protect and respect’ campaign. The images were launched this week at the association’s annual conference in Harrogate.

LGA chairman Cllr Margaret Eaton said: “Social workers should be proud of what they do. Councillors want social workers to be able to hold their heads high when they tell people about their jobs, and it is partly down to councils to show they are proud of them as employees.

”The posters are part of our on-going efforts to give practical support to those involved with the social work profession.”