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What happens when respecting someone's choices means accepting a decision you really don't agree with?
Social work sounds like it should be about knowing what to do. But some of the hardest decisions happen when there isn't an obvious right answer.
Autonomy. Risk. Equality. Protection. Privacy. Professional responsibility.
They all matter — but sometimes they pull us in different directions.
This episode explores what values and ethics look like in social work practice, including how assumptions influence judgement, why language matters, the power social workers hold, and what happens when a person's wishes don't match what professionals think should happen.
How do we notice when our own values have entered the room?
Please note: This podcast and these show notes are for learning, reflection and general information. They are not legal, professional or clinical advice and do not replace current legislation, guidance, local policies or supervision. Always check the current position before relying on information in practice.
In this episode
- Why social work isn't value-free
- When autonomy and safety collide
- Whether treating everyone equally is always fair
- How professional language shapes our understanding of people
- Social work, power and ethics
- Personal values versus professional values
- Why reflection and supervision matter
- Professional integrity within difficult systems
A question to take away
When you're certain you know what should happen, have you stopped to ask yourself why?
Useful resources
BASW Code of Ethics — Code of Ethics | BASW
Social Work England — Professional Standards — Professional standards - Social Work England
BASW — Professional Capabilities Framework — Professional Capabilities Framework (PCF) | BASW
If this episode makes you question an assumption or think, “hang on… why do we do it like that?”, keep the conversation going.
Listen, follow or subscribe to Let Me Explain, and share the episode.
SWU & BASW
SWU is the only UK trade union for all social workers, and is run by people qualified in social work.
BASW is not a trade union. SWU provides trade union membership, including advice and representation in relevant employment matters.
SWU can be the union you want it to be — whether that is representation when or if you need it, campaigning on the issues that matter to you, or training and support to develop your confidence as a Union Contact in the workplace.
SWU has an arms-length relationship with BASW. To become a member of SWU, you need to be a BASW member and can opt into SWU for an additional membership fee.
Find out more about SWU:
SWU Social Workers Union - SWU Social Workers Union
Find out more about BASW:
Just a pointer: I am not a registered Social Worker and wont pretend to be.
