Retaining local authority social workers: a theory of change

The retention of social workers is an international concern. In England, the loss of social workers from adult and children’s social work leads to inconsistency for service users, workforce instability and is costly. This report introduces an evidence-based theory of change (ToC) to address and improve the retention of local authority social workers.

The ToC draws on two major research studies. Study one involved 58 experienced children's social workers from 11 local authorities in England. This led to the concept of Critical Career Episodes (CCEs) (‘stay or go’ moments where workers are vulnerable to exit) and identified that opportunities for mobility, generativity and specialism help to sustain social workers and promote retention.
Study two consisted of 11 workshops with 51 health and social care professionals across two local authorities in England including: adult and children’s social workers, Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) and occupational therapists. In consultation with professionals, a ToC was developed to support workforce development and retention across the career span.

The ToC provides a tool to assist workforce development and planning in local authorities across adults and children’s services. It is also relevant for adult and children’s social workers and team managers. The ToC provides a new theoretical model for understanding and improving retention in social work based on the concept of professional identity. It may therefore be useful for social care systems in the United States, Europe and Australia where there are similar issues around retention.