SOCIAL work leaders in Scotland are calling on employers to embrace flexible working to tackle an ongoing recruitment and retention crisis.

A report published today by the Scottish Association of Social Work (SASW) and the Social Workers Union (SWU) shows that the number of social workers working flexibly varies widely from one local authority to another.

The report identifies the challenges facing the profession in Scotland, with 19 per cent of the workforce aged 55 or over, 82 per cent being female and a quarter quitting within six years of qualifying.

SASW national director Alison Bavidge said: “Social work is an immensely rewarding profession, but we know it can bring a high level of stress if the supports for social workers are not there.

“Flexible working arrangements can benefit our communities and our workers and could be a key element in improving both recruitment and retention for social work.“

SWU general secretary John McGowan added: “With recruitment of social workers still proving challenging for employers, now is the time for concerted action. 

“We need to see social work employers offering more roles on part-time or flexible hours contracts.

“This can only improve wellbeing and work-life balance, which is much needed in our challenging profession,” Mr McGowan said.

The findings show the number of part-time social workers in Scotland has remained stagnant over the last decade, with the numbers working flexibly varying hugely between employers.

According to the report, only half of social work employers offer flexible working in job advertisements.

A Scottish government spokesperson said: “The Scottish government welcomes the work undertaken on this important subject by the Scottish Association of Social Work and the Social Workers Union.

"The report’s findings and recommendations will be considered carefully with partners in local government.”