Recentring anti-racist practice in social work education and training in England: a qualitative study

Abstract

Data from nine focus-group discussions is presented here, contained within a larger study. The focus groups involved social work students, academics, practice educators and newly qualified social workers, and explored challenges and opportunities as these emerged from the upsurge of the Black Lives Matter movement and relevant activism following the end of May 2020. The majority of participants do not feel that they have been prepared well for anti-racist practice; more than one third of the respondents has felt discriminated against in their practice; and most claimed that their placement or practice adheres to culturally sensitive practice. This article concludes that a sustained agenda in social work education and training is needed that will address anti-racist practice by name, as well as promote a greater degree of self-awareness and self-understanding of professionals.