Transdisciplinary CPD Showcase Series: Introducing the BASW Capability Statement on Social Work with Autistic People

Northumbria University's Department of Social Work, Education and Community Wellbeing (SWECW) places itself strategically to play a significant role in aiding societal recovery and repair beyond the pandemic period (Future of SWECW, 2021).

Together with the Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health (NMH), SWECW have a wealth of expertise in working with our partners in the north-east and beyond, supporting professional development and being responsive to workplace needs.

In this series we showcase some of our expertise in teaching and in research, to our partners and interested parties. We can offer bespoke CPD provision (either accredited or non-accredited). Working collaboratively, we can blend our CPD offer with our research and knowledge exchange strategies.

Session 2: Introducing the BASW Capability Statement on Social Work with Autistic People
Delivered by: Dr Philip Heslop and colleagues

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability; however, autistic people are very diverse with some needing additional professional support while many do not. As Stephen Shore explained “if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism”. The evidence is autistic people can be overlooked when seeking support, autism may be generalised and the person’s individuality, their strengths and needs, may go unrecognised, particularly when some autistic people mask or camouflage themselves. It is generally recognised professionals need training in supporting autistic people.

This training session introduces the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) launched the Capabilities Statement for Social Work with Autistic Adults. This internationally unique capabilities statement was commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care and co-produced with autistic people. The Capabilities Statement provides guidance for professionals, managers and other stakeholders involved in delivering social work/ social care to autistic adults. 

Who Should Attend?

• While this is a social work/ social care focused session, appropriate for local authorities and social care agencies, it can easily be adapted to meet other professions, such as health and education.

Register your place for the session by filling in the form below or clicking on the button above;