BASW England Chair steps down
BASW England National Director, Professor Sam BaronVava has been an excellent Chair of BASW England, going above and beyond time and again for our members and the profession.
Vava Tampa has announced his departure from the role as BASW England Chair.
Vava has led BASW England’s National Standing Committee since being elected by members in January 2022. During his time as Chair, he has fought tirelessly for a stronger and more respected social work profession in England, using his position to advocate firmly for higher investment in social work, greater recognition by politicians, and better working conditions for the sector.
He was also a strong voice for social justice and human rights, drawing upon his post-qualifying experience in supporting survivors of human trafficking and modern slavery, as well as his knowledge in mental health social work.
Vava has become well known for representing the social work profession in a number of high-profile national media appearances.
This includes on BBC Breakfast and Channel 4 News, where his straight-talking, concise and clear approach has won him plaudits and admiration from all corners of the profession and beyond.
He has also used his platform to fiercely champion, speak up for and inspire social workers, students and people with lived experience.
Most notably, his passion for social work and equality have shone through in incisive speeches at the Social Worker of the Year Awards and BASW England Conferences.
Away from the public-facing work, Vava has been regarded fondly among staff at BASW for his kind, supportive, gentle and good humoured nature, and we have all greatly valued his leadership and friendship.
BASW England National Director, Professor Sam Baron added her gratitude to Vava for his hard work as Chair, commenting:
“Vava has been an excellent Chair of BASW England, going above and beyond time and again to ensure that the needs, wishes and views of members are at the heart of BASW’s agenda at every turn.
“He has taken all challenges before him in his stride. Whether it’s been through giving social work more prominence and attention in the media, or amplifying BASW’s campaigns for a stronger profession and a fairer society to politicians, Vava has led from the front with authenticity and distinction.
“Vava leaves us with all our very best wishes for the future and we are sure he will continue to serve as a wonderful ambassador for the social work profession wherever he chooses to give his energies next.”
The BASW England Annual Member’s Meeting took place on Thursday, 16 October where a number of new appointments were made. You can view them all here.