Hidden issues in rural social work and communities

The conference will explore hidden issues and injustices in rural communities and the role of rural social workers. It aims to challenge prevailing myths and stereotypes, and make these more visible in thinking about policy and practice. In doing so it will celebrate what is good about rural social work practice, while not shying away from challenges for the future.

Our programme:

We are delighted to have the following contributions from a mix of speakers and with time in the programme for Q&A and discussion

- Hidden issues’ in rural social work and communities (Colin Turbett and Jane Pye)

- Understanding child poverty in rural and island Scotland (Jane Atterton)

- Out of sight, out of mind: impact of poor treatment of Gypsy Traveller communities and what can be done (Roseanna McPhee)

- Protecting rural young people from sexual abuse and exploitation (Sarah Nelson)

- Domestic violence and abuse in same sex women’s relationships (Vik Kelly-Teare)

- Older people in rural communities: challenging notions of inevitable decline and highlighting the importance of place (Becky Squires)

- Making sure rural social worker’s voices are heard (Ben Farrugia, Social Work Scotland)


Rural Social Work Forum (Scotland)

Events in this webinar series are put together by the Rural Social Work (Scotland) Forum, with partners from Iriss, Scottish Association of Social Work (SASW), University of the West of Scotland, Lancaster University and University of the Highlands and Islands, along with representation from Argyll & Bute, Dumfries and Galloway, Highland, Orkney and the Western Isles, as well as the Social Work Education Partnership hosted by Social Work Scotland.