BASW's Social Media Policy
The purpose of this policy is to clarify what BASW considers to be the professional responsibilities of social workers and social work students, in relation to the increasing use of social media. As a professional body across the UK, BASW has developed a policy to support members to use social media appropriately and ensure practice is based on the BASW Code of Ethics.
BASW recognises the opportunities and challenges social media presents for social workers in their practice and the possible risks both for social workers and service users, particularly young people or other vulnerable people. The policy may need to be updated as the dynamic nature of social media evolves, but the particular principles of the Code of Ethics will remain the same, and will be referenced in the policy by an accompanying number in brackets. BASW encourages the positive uses of social media for networking, communication and developing inclusive practice.
Social media can enhance communication and be used as a positive tool in social work. BASW believes that good practice in social media is no different from that in any other form of communication. Social workers should ensure they maintain appropriate professional and personal boundaries2 and take responsibility for recognising ethical dilemmas presented by the use of different types of social media.
Published : 22nd January 2013
Publisher : British Association of Social Workers [ More From This Publisher ]
Rights : British Association of Social Workers
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