THE SOCIAL WORKERS UNION

The Social Workers Union, established by BASW, will ensure social work professionals can enjoy dedicated, expert support from a union that understands the challenges involved in supporting people whose lives are very often in crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Social Workers Union

Why has BASW set up a trade union arm?

Firstly, and most importantly, because it is what our members want – they voted for it at our May 2011 AGM. The establishment of the Social Workers Union (SWU) means we can provide advice and representation as well as industrial relations services. The Social Workers Union will offer a service tailored specifically towards the needs of social workers, setting it apart from any other trade union.

Am I automatically a member of the Social Workers Union?

No. Membership is fully optional. It is an opt-in process.

Do I have to pay extra to join SWU?

Membership is free to BASW members. You pay your BASW membership subscription in the usual way and, if you decide to opt-in, you are then also a member of SWU.

Can I be a member of BASW and not a member of SWU?

Yes, and indeed you won’t be a member of SWU unless you actually opt-in to the union.

I am already a member of a trade union – can I be a member of SWU and a member of an- other union?

Yes. There is no exclusivity clause in joining the Social Workers Union so members can, if they wish, retain their current membership of another union or join a different union in the future.

What happens to BASW’s existing Advice & Representation Service?

The A&R Service will continue to offer its services to members of BASW (whether you opt-in to membership of the union or not) whilst also forming an integral part of the Social Workers Union.

Can I join The Social Workers Union now?

Yes, visit www.basw.co.uk/swu to find out more.

Will the Social Workers Union represent me and my colleagues in local authority pay and conditions bargaining?

Not straight away. SWU has written to every employer in the UK to seek negotiating rights and will be working closely with the TUC and other trade unions on this issue. However, BASW is clear that the issue of pay and conditions is an area that it will voice its opinions on, regardless of its formal status.

Will The Social Workers Union become a member of the TUC?

We will be applying for full membership of the TUC and hope to have this approved over the coming months.

I joined BASW to be a member of a professional association rather than a trade union – won’t this move undermine the culture of the organisation?

We have established SWU as a separate arm of BASW. It will be run at arms-length and will enhance rather than undermine the culture of the organisation. All existing services, plus many more currently being developed, will be retained, so this development should be seen as an additional benefit of membership and in no way negative. There are no issues whatsoever if you wish not to opt-in to membership of SWU.

My local authority has previously resisted allowing BASW’s A&R officers to represent me in employment matters, citing the fact BASW is not a trade union. Will this now change?

Yes, because of the new union status BASW’s Advice & Representation officers cannot now be prevented from representing members in employment issues.

What does being a member of SWU entail?

For the most part membership is all about the Social Workers Union supporting you in your work. However, understanding the Rules of membership, and adhering to them, is important, so all new joiners should make sure they read them here – www.basw.co.uk/swu/social-workers-union-rules