David Mandel International author and trainer on domestic violence
David Mandel International author and trainer on domestic violence. I talked with David about his new book ( see below ) and more widely on his road to where he is today.
With over 35 years’ experience in the domestic violence and child welfare fields, David is the creator of the Safe & Together Model, a transformational approach to changing how systems and practitioners respond to domestic violence when children are involved. He has identified how a perpetrator pattern-based approach can improve the ability to partner with survivors, intervene with perpetrators as parents, and improve outcomes for children.
David is the founder of the Safe & Together Institute, which works with governments and NGOs across the globe, including Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Through their live training, organizational consulting, e-learning, and trainer certification, the Safe & Together Institute provides organizations and systems with a wide range of practice change tools. Currently, the Institute supports almost 300 Certified Trainers and 80 Partner Agencies worldwide. The Model has proven its relevance to multiple sectors, including family court, substance use, law enforcement, mental health, multi-agency efforts, and other disciplines.
David has written or co-written numerous journal articles, book chapters, and white papers, including his most recent one on the alignment of the Safe & Together Model with the children’s best interest framework. The Institute’s work is regularly the subject of research studies, including a current project examining the relevance of the Model in a First Nation context in Australia. He has just published his first book, “Stop Blaming Mothers and Ignoring Fathers: How to Transform the Way We Keep Children Safe from Domestic Violence,” which is available online through Amazon.com. Follow this link to the book https://mybook.to/mK39V
Contact Information:
Safe & Together Institute
Box 745 Canton CT 06019
Email: davidmandel@safeandtogetherinstitute.com
http://Web: www.safeandtogetherinstitute.com
As always, please use Speakpipe on the home page of every podcast to leave messages/questions Thank you.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
158 Global Social Work Agenda in A Precarious World
This episode is a slightly different one as it is the recording of the Global Social Work Talk from 28th March 2024. The Global Social Work TALK aimed to deliver “ideas to change the world”. I was one of three speakers on the session. Listen to this episode and hear some of the challenges across the globe for social work today.
Keynote Speaker: Professor Antoinette Lombard, Nominated for Incoming President, International Association of Schools of Social Work, started her academic career at the University of Pretoria where she became a full professor in social work and head of the Department of Social Work. She was the Vice President of the Association for Schools of Social Work Education Institutions (ASASWEI) and is IASSW Chair of the Global Agenda for Social Work and Social Development. She served on the executive of the Association for Schools
of Social Work in Africa.
David Niven, presenter of the podcast Thoughts on the Social World for 10 years interviewing a wide choice of guests, national and international appearing on the programme and the variety of subjects covered make good listening and provide a great research opportunity. He has over 30 years of experience working with the media as a former Chair of the British Association of Social Workers.
Professor Ngoh Tiong TAN, Chair, Global Institute of Social Work, for access to online training of social workers all around the world. Dr Tan is Director, Joy Foundation, Good Harvest International and President Connexions International as well as former Treasurer International Association of Social Workers, former Regional President IFSW (AP) and past President, Singapore Association of Social Workers.
Forum Chair: Dr Terence Yow, Vice President, GISW
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
157 Unseen, the Leading UK Anti-Slavery Charity
Andrew Wallis OBE founded Unseen, the Leading UK Anti-Slavery Charity. It’s an organization that fights tirelessly against all forms of slavery. Today’s podcast covers ground related to law enforcement, survivor’s welfare, training, the world wide nature of the crimes, predictions and the under application of legislation. Unseen provides safe housing and essential support services to survivors of trafficking, and they also operate the UK’s Modern Slavery and Exploitation Helpline. Unseen works alongside businesses and other entities to eliminate slavery. Andrew is an advisor to the Competent Boards Program and Tech Against Trafficking. He co-chairs the UK Home Office’s Modern Slavery Engagement Forum and chaired the landmark report on modern slavery in the UK called “It Happens Here.” His expertise was crucial in developing the UK Modern Slavery Act of 2015, for which he received an OBE. Andrew has faced many challenges over the years, from building flat-pack furniture for Unseen’s first safe house to advising multinational corporations on supply chain slavery. He also collaborates with governments on policies and legislation to combat modern-day slavery. Andrew frequently appears in the media to discuss modern slavery, human rights, and how they intersect in society and business. People who know him describe him as “the loveliest disruptor you could ever meet.” His contribution to the fight against slavery is invaluable.
Please note all contact details:-
https://www.unseenuk.org/modern-slavery-training/
https://www.unseenuk.org/business/
https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org
http://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewwallis
David is on the International Advisory Panel of the GISW
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
156 Traffiking and Slavery. Follow the Money.
Traffiking and Slavery. Follow the Money. Such an important addition to the investigation and interruption of crimes that are conservatively put at costing over 150 Billion dollars a year. Karim Rajwani, B.A, F.C.A. C.P.A. ACAMS talks to me of his extensive history in several settings helping combat these scourges on our communities. We discuss the growth of these crimes as well as strategies adopted to support law enforcement. We talk about the huge need for more training, awareness raising accross the world. So much known yet so much to do including practical ideas that everyone can help with–such as challenging your own financial providers-banks, insurance companies etc – to say what training their staff has had in methods to shine a light on traffikers, slavery in all its forms and child exploitation. Currently he is an independent Financial Crimes Consultant advising financial instructions, consulting firms and FinTech’s and is also on several NGOs/NPOs advisory boards focused on fighting human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.
He was the SVP, Chief Operating Officer at Scotiabank, leading the bank’s Financial Crime remediation activities including transaction monitoring and screening. Mr. Rajwani also had global responsibility for AML Threat Intelligence, as well as the Strategic Planning, Project Management Office and the AML Solution Delivery.
Prior to that was he was the Global Head of Financial Crime Investigations and Intelligence, the Global Head of Financial Crime Technology Strategy, and the Money Laundering Reporting Officer at Deutsche Bank. In this role he was also responsible for the AML remediation program in response to regulatory actions as well as major client investigations.
He was also the Chief Anti-Money Laundering lead for the RBC Financial Group (RBC), where he oversaw the design, implementation and the day-to-day management of the Anti Money Laundering, Sanctions, Anti Bribery and Corruption and High-Risk Client Management) Programs for more than 15 years. In addition, he was responsible for the AML Compliance, Investigations and Data Science teams globally.
He also has significant experience in financial crime technology, managing artificial intelligence/data science teams as well as developing strategies for tacking human trafficking and child sexual exploitation, including leading a number public-private partnership. He continues to advise Fintech as well as NGOs/NPOs. He is a Board Member/Advisory Board Member for various NGOs and Hospitals.
In addition to his risk management experience, Mr. Rajwani is a Chartered Accountant both in Canada as well as the UK and has worked for various Financial Institutions, Chartered Accounting and Management Consulting firms. In these roles, he has overseen the implementation of several enterprise-wide risk management and compliance initiatives and in total 40 years of risk management, compliance, audit, and financial accounting experience.
Mr. Rajwani was also a member of the Advisory Council on National Security for the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada between 2009 and 2012. He created and the Co-Chaired the Canadian Chapter of the Association of Certified Anti Money Specialists (ACAMS) and was a member of the Advisory Board of ACAMS. Currently on the advisory boards of Rahab’s Daughters and the Anti Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative, he is also a lecturer and international speaker including at the UN, training law enforcement, ACAMs as well as University Masters Programs.
https://www.protectchildren.ca/en/
https://fintrac-canafe.canada.ca/intel/operation/exploitation-eng
https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/
https://www.iwf.org.uk/
David is on the International Advisory Panel of the GISW
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
155 Trapped in County Lines. Christina Gabbitas
In this episode I speak to award-winning children’s author, Christina Gabbitas, about her book ‘Trapped in County Lines’. This is a follow up book to ‘No More Knives or County Lines’. We discuss why books like this are important in how we educate young people and their parents about issues like county lines. Christina shares the work she does with her book alongside the police and in schools and speaks of the power of storytelling around these difficult topics.
We also talk about her poetry competition launching on 1st March 2024.
About Christina:
Christina Gabbitas is an award-winning children’s author, Honorary Member of the NSPCC Council, Coronation Champion, and founder of the Children Literature Festivals charity, who was recently awarded a Prime Ministers Points of Light Award. Her impactful writing commissions include collaborations with organisations such as Humberside Police & Crime Commissioners Office, amongst other organisations and
charities. Notably, her recent work, “Trapped In County Lines,” commissioned by North Yorkshire Police and the North Yorkshire Fire & Crime Commissioners Office, reflects her dedication to educating children and young people about the signs of exploitation. Christina actively partners with various Police Forces, contributing to her transformative impact on children’s literature and safety education. Christina has visited over 180 schools delivering early intervention sessions with her work surrounding county lines.
Christina’s safeguarding stories are in the NSPCC Library, and she is currently liaising with Childline about online content surrounding county lines. Trapped in County Lines was book of the week at the NSPCC in October.
www.trappedincountylines.co.uk
www.nomoreknifecrime.co.uk
Schools Feedback. Check what’s been said.
https://www.benthamcpschool.org.uk/news/2022/no-more-knives-or-county-lines
https://planetradio.co.uk/greatest-hits/harrogate-yorkshire-dales/news/no-more-knives-or-county-lines-primary-school-christina-gabbitas-author/
https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/19662948.author-christina-gabbitas-backs-police-county-lines-scheme/
https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/news/north-yorkshire/news/news/2021/october/police-and-childrens-author-work-together-to-deliver-a-key-message-on-the-dangers-of-county-lines-drug-dealing/
Children perspective https://www.nomoreknifecrime.co.uk/humberside-police/
Animation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXNVQ4VcBts
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
154 Safeguarding Communications, Miriam Rich
When it comes to facing the public after a serious event, safeguarding communications expert Miriam Rich has developed skills and experience highlighting the key factors that should always be present–truth, sensitivity and a priority for victims and survivors.
Miriam is a crisis communications consultant and media relations specialist with a background in safeguarding. She’s handled communications for some of the most high-profile incidents and investigations of recent decades, including London’s multi-agency crisis response to Covid-19, the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the trial of the London ‘nailbomber’, the Soham murders of Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman, the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, and multiple investigations into child sexual abuse. She started as a press officer at New Scotland Yard in 1999 in the aftermath of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry, working on portfolios including counter-terrorism, racial and violent crime and the Commissioner’s press office. In 2006 she went on to be a founding member of staff and Head of Media at the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre, the government agency (now part of the National Crime Agency) set up in response to the explosion of the internet and what were, at that time, new threats to children via social media. She left the public sector in 2011 to work independently, founding her company which provides media training and crisis communications support to organisations with a safeguarding responsibility. Clients include schools and colleges, fostering agencies, religious organisations and charities. Public and private sector clients include leading day and boarding schools, universities, law enforcement agencies and charities, for whom she provide support, advice and guidance at board level and develop targeted communications materials for stakeholders. She provides media training in crisis communications to individuals and groups, working with a professional cameraman to provide an authentic experience that builds confidence and prepares you for the real thing.
Miriam has specific expertise in criminal justice, child protection, education and safeguarding issues with experience gained at New Scotland Yard, the National Crime Agency, the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre and a wide range of other organisations and companies. She helps clients to respond to crises and reputation-threatening situations through:
providing strategic direction and media training at board level
• developing / implementing a communications strategy to manage media interest and other enquiries
• handling media enquiries and guiding press office responses during times of crisis
• advising on authentic and meaningful communications to key stakeholders
• supporting in-house press and marketing teams
Contact details. www.miriamrich.co.uk
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
153 The small but important charity grows!
Grantown Remakery is a charity based in the Scottish Highlands, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore. I talked about this, a year or so ago, with George Livingstone as the guest. It seemed a good idea to see how they weathered the pandemic and did George have views on how the wider community could support the causes and challenges they saw. We will hear that the project has changed since we last spoke in a number of ways.
We talk of the wider social trends and challenges faced by those they help. 3 strands of work for the 3 days they can afford to open.
1) Working with young learning disabled adults often isolated and lonely
2) Existing work with children helping to transition from school to further education.
3) developing a partnership with Job Centre Plus and 16 to 25 year olds who were deemed ‘not work ready’
It is a community social work scheme whose value to the area is significant, especially when the fall out from the pandemic adds to the existing challenges from rural poverty.
In addition they are also working on two new developments; 1) meeting shortly with the local Medical Practice with the view to becoming and organisation that GP’s can use on a social prescribing basis, and 2) are about to meet with ex forces representatives to consider what support we might provide to veterans who are having difficulty accessing work. This would involve opening for a further day.
All of this assists with fundraising as they can apply for funds for each discrete part of the project rather than on a blanket basis.
Also acknowledge that they are a member of Circular Communities Scotland, a national organisation which is about encouraging reuse of items rather than replacement which opens up further funding opportunities to them and enables the support of core work.
Also George is thinking of stepping down over the next year or two so any interested parties in the NE of Scotland can contact and have a conversation.
Grantown Remakeryhttps://www.grantownremakery.org.uk provides Employment Skills Development, volunteering opportunities and support for Young People who may be having difficulty in Transition from School to Further Education and Employment, Adults with a Disability or with Mental Ill-Health, supporting all in their journey to recovery and towards fulfilment of their personal goals.
It aims to provide an alternative to landfill disposal by repairing, upgrading, recycling and reselling of goods through a Community based system. This helps pay for coaching and supervision. They have developed strong business relationships with both Partners and the Local Community to identify the best service for individuals in need of support and skills development within strong environmental awareness and action
Email info@grantownremakery.org.uk Tel 01479 873612
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
152 Peter Garsden President of the Association of Child Abuse Lawyers
In this episode I interview Peter Garsden, the President of the Association of Child Abuse Lawyers. I first interviewed Peter on this podcast 10 years ago. You can listen to that original episode here. In our updated conversation we talk about the changes that have happened over the last 10 years and the work that Peter does with the Association of Child Abuse Lawyers.
Peter has been a solicitor for over 40 years, and is the current President of A.C.A.L (Association of Child Abuse Lawyers, an organisation he helped found in 1981.
He is a Solicitor Consultant at Scott-Moncrieff & Associates . He also designed and maintains his own website Abuse Advice 4 Survivors. For nearly 30 years he ran his own firm Abney Garsden, Solicitors of Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire. He is a member of the Law Society Multi Party Action Group.
For several years he headed a specialist department of Child Abuse Personal Injury Lawyers and was the co-ordinating solicitor for most Child Abuse compensation claims and group actions in the North of England, including a 5 home 900 Claimant action based in Manchester. He is a former Secretary and founder member of a charity called Abuse Watch. He has also assisted an international charity called Innocence in Danger.
He has written and lectured on the subject of child abuse litigation and has extensive media experience on radio, television, and in the National newspapers.
Peter and his firm have won several local and national awards such as Personal Injury Team of the Year (Eclipse Personal Injury Awards 2011), Small Firm of the Year (Manchester Legal Awards, 2011 and 2013, Most Innovative Use of Legal Software (2010). Peter was made Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year in the Manchester Legal Awards of 2013, Solicitor of the Year at the QualitySolicitors Annual Awards in 2014, Law Society Solicitor of the Year (Private Practise) in 2016, Personal Injury Lawyer of the Year at the Eclipse Personal Injury Awards in 2018, and given a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Claims Management Awards in 2017. In 2023, he was awarded a Pride of Britain Award for his dedication to child abuse, and fostering children.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
151 John Pizzuro CEO Raven anti child exploitation part 2
Join me for part 2 of my conversation with John Pizzuro, the CEO of Raven about anti child exploitation.
John is the CEO of Raven, the first and only 501(c)4 group ( social welfare, not for profit ) focused on child exploitation in the United States, John works with lawmakers, advocates, agencies, and organizations who are willing to challenge the status quo and fight to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Prior to that John spent 25 years in the New Jersey State police where John had spent his last six years as The Internet Crimes Against Children Commander where he led a team of 200 investigators. In that capacity John served as Chair of the Outreach Committee, and US representative to INTERPOL. John developed a penchant for neuroscience, understanding social engineering and how criminals lured their victims and in return used those same techniques to lure criminals out of the shadows. John made it is mission to protect the innocent and leveraging partners skillsets in order to accomplish that. John’s Task force arrested over 1500 individuals that preyed on the innocent. John has developed and teaches classes on Cognitive Interviewing. John speaks frequently regarding leading and managing large scale investigations, leadership, online grooming, child exploitation, Human trafficking, social engineering, and how technology has impacted society and their behavior. He has written framework for other countries to develop their own investigative units with best practices. John is certified as a Master Neuro Linguistic Practitioner and has an M.A. in Human Resource Development and Training
John and colleagues from Raven addressed Congress this week and talked of how complex and challenging the threats to children are in our communities. check out the link. https://www.linkedin.com/company/ravenassociation/
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
150 Lyn Romeo. Chief Social Worker for Adults
In today’s episode I speak to Lyn Romeo, the current Chief Social Worker for Adults. After 10 years Lyn is ready to move on from this role. In our discussion we talk about some of her achievements over the past 10 years, what new issues have emerged as a focus and the activity she has personally undertaken. We hear about some of the challenges facing social care and what it is really like to be in the role of Chief Social Worker for Adults. This is a fascinating conversation.
About Lyn Romeo:
Lyn Romeo took up her post as Chief Social Worker for Adults in September 2013 and I first interviewed her in February 2014 for this podcast. ( No 19 )
Previously, Lyn worked as the Director for Adult Social Care and Joint Commissioning in the London Borough of Camden. She has also worked as an inspector with the Social Services Inspectorate, as well as working in Yorkshire for over 20 years as both a field social worker and in a variety of management roles across children and adults services.
The Chief Social Worker for Adults works collaboratively with the Chief Social Worker for Children and Families. Together they work from the Office of the Chief
Social Worker to:
– support and challenge the profession to ensure that children and adults get the best possible help from social workers
– provide independent expert advice to ministers on social work reform, and the contribution of social work and social workers to policy implementation more generally
– provide leadership and work with key leaders in the profession and wider sector to drive forward the improvement and reform programme for social work
– challenge weak practice to achieve decisive improvements in the quality of social work
– provide leadership to the network of principal social workers
It’s good to have had 10 years to assess and measure change.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
149. Eileen Dong. UN Ambassador, survivor and author
In today’s episode I speak to Eileen Dong, UN Ambassador, survivor and author. We discuss the challenges facing the world around human trafficking. Eileen, as a survivor of human trafficking now provides education and support for other survivors. We discuss how we can practically learn from people’s experiences and how human trafficking is a non partisan global issue.
Eileen shares her book, ‘Thank Your Predator: A guide to Trauma Recovery from Abuse’ which is an educational guide and seeks to consider the role of prevention in human trafficking. She also highlighted the 2023 International Conference on Abuse and Awards talking place on October 26th. More information can be found below.
Eileen Dong is a trailblazer combating gender-based violence and human trafficking, is the Founder and Executive Director of Hope Pyx Global. As a UN Ambassador, her mission encompasses ending abuse, exploitation, trafficking, violence, and torture for people of all backgrounds. With a diverse background as a Petroleum Engineer, NASA Scholar, and Supply Chain Executive, Dong’s approach extends to collaborating with DOJ, ICE, and FBI on trafficking and money laundering cases.
A TEDx speaker, author of “Thank Your Predator: A Guide to Trauma Recovery from Abuse”, Dong’s expertise combines personal and professional experiences, fostering innovation and partnerships to combat trafficking comprehensively. A member of national human trafficking leadership councils, and formerly a diplomat at the British Consulate General, she influences inclusive, equitable, and data-driven policies. Her involvement with the Center for Countering Human Trafficking and training of law enforcement and victim service providers bridges gaps in culturally sensitive care.
Eileen Dong’s leadership is exemplified by her speech at the 2023 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, embodying the theme of not leaving any victim behind. Honored with “Eileen Dong Day” by Houston’s Mayor, her achievements, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and Addy Award, have reached a global audience of 37.2 million through media features on ABC, Fox, and TED Talk.
You can find information about the things we discussed below:
2023 International Conference on Abuse (Oct 26, HYBRID): 2023 International Conference on Abuse & Awards
“Thank Your Predator: A Guide to Trauma Recovery from Abuse”: https://a.co/d/bIkDsuG
To learn more Eileen Dong, or to book Ms Dong for speaking or advising: https://eileendong.com/
To stay up to date about future events: http://www.hopepyxglobal.org/
International Survivors Network: https://www.facebook.com/groups/168664085021368
The Ms Texas Show: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMsTexasShow
To make a charitable donation: Donate Now – HOPE PYX GLOBAL
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
148 Donna Ohdedar. Perception of Safeguarding.
Donna Ohdedar. Perception of Safeguarding. From time to time I like to have a talk with those who manage essential parts of the safeguarding landscape. Today I’m talking to Donna who is CEO of a company that conducts serious case reviews into adult and child deaths and serious incidents.
Donna has 16 years public sector experience, including her last role as Head of Law for a leading metropolitan authority. Now a safeguarding adviser, solutions focused mentor, public speaker & trainer, Donna offers her university accredited training programme, SILP School. She is also host of the Safeguarding & Domestic Abuse Sector podcast.
Donna is involved in serious case reviews in both children’s and adults’ safeguarding, domestic homicide and is a SILP Reviewer and Mentor. S.I.L.P. stands for Single Incident Learning Process.. Donna offers ‘SILP School’ her university accredited training course, CPD for reviewers & a free online network for leaders in review practice. She is also the host of the SILP School Podcast. S.I.L.P.Training is now an established process.Some reports are too long for what’s required and a rapid review can, when appropriate, deliver suitable learning recommendations that can bolster public confidence.—which took us on to the responsibilit of the safeguarding professions to find better ways to show the mainstream media all the vast amount of good work going on–just to balance the cases that result in serious injury or death–in fact it’s only the criminal cases that command space.
Changes could include an improvement in the number of reviews that contain the voice of the family–in 2021 one third of children’s reviews didn’t include this.Now there are over 70 people who have undertaken S.I.L.P.Training. These include child protection professionals from Health, Legal, Social Work and Police.
Our conersation ranged widely and covered safeguarding accross the sector.
All details of Donna and her work are on the links below
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-ohdedar-review-consulting-ltd
SILP School: https://donna-ohdedar.mykajabi.com/silp-school-blue-light
Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse Sector Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-safeguarding-and-domestic-abuse-sector-podcast/id1554898339
Reviews: https://donna-ohdedar.mykajabi.com/child-safeguarding-practice-review
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by
147 John Pizzuro CEO Raven anti child exploitation
John is the CEO of Raven, the first and only 501(c)4 group ( social welfare, not for profit ) focused on child exploitation in the United States, John works with lawmakers, advocates, agencies, and organizations who are willing to challenge the status quo and fight to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Prior to that John spent 25 years in the New Jersey State police where John had spent his last six years as The Internet Crimes Against Children Commander where he led a team of 200 investigators. In that capacity John served as Chair of the Outreach Committee, and US representative to INTERPOL. John developed a penchant for neuroscience, understanding social engineering and how criminals lured their victims and in return used those same techniques to lure criminals out of the shadows. John made it is mission to protect the innocent and leveraging partners skillsets in order to accomplish that. John’s Task force arrested over 1500 individuals that preyed on the innocent. John has developed and teaches classes on Cognitive Interviewing. John speaks frequently regarding leading and managing large scale investigations, leadership, online grooming, child exploitation, Human trafficking, social engineering, and how technology has impacted society and their behavior. He has written framework for other countries to develop their own investigative units with best practices. John is certified as a Master Neuro Linguistic Practitioner and has an M.A. in Human Resource Development and Training
John and colleagues from Raven addressed Congress this week and talked of how complex and challenging the threats to children are in our communities. check out the link. https://www.linkedin.com/company/ravenassociation/
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
146 Prof. Jonathan Singer, Suicide Prevention Month.
As it’s the start of Suicide Prevention Month there could be no better guest than Professor Jonathan Singer who until recently held a National position in the United States but also has written extensively on the subject of suicide prevention.
All this on top of presenting an award winning podcast for 15 years http://www.socialworkpodcast.com
Jonathan B. Singer, Ph.D., LCSW is Professor at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work, Past-President of the American Association of Suicidology and coauthor of the best-selling text, Suicide in Schools: A Practitioner’s Guide to Multi-level Prevention, Assessment, Intervention, and Postvention. Published by Routledge.
In 2023 NASW named him a Social Work Pioneer for bringing podcasting to social work. He is a two-time winner of the National Association of Social Workers Media Award (2012 and 2016). He was a 2014 Visiting Scholar at Fordham University, the 2017 Lucille N. Austin Scholar at Columbia University, and the 2018 Distinguished Lecturer at Weber State University.
Dr. Singer is a well-regarded international speaker who has given hundreds of continuing education workshops, keynote addresses, and presentations on youth suicide, ethics, technology, adolescent development and attachment-based family therapy in the USA, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. He is an NASW Expert, Healio Psychiatry Peer Perspective Board member, and has served on several national youth advisory boards including Sandy Hook Promise, JED Foundation, Suicide Prevention Resource Center, and the National Suicide Prevention (988 Suicide & Crisis) Lifeline.
A pioneer in the integration of technology and social work, Dr. Singer is an original member of the online suicide prevention . Founded in January 2007, the Social Work Podcast is the first podcast by and for social workers, with over 50,000 followers on social media, listeners in 208 countries and territories, and over 8 million downloads. He lives in Evanston, IL with his wife and three children and can be found on Twitter as @socworkpodcast and Facebook at facebook.com/swpodcast.
To access excellent resources for Suicide Prevention Month 23 (#SPM23) the Suicide Prevention Resource Center’s two-page guide.https://sprc.org/online-library/suicide-prevention-month-ideas-for-action/
The second edition of ‘Suicide in Schools’ will be published in the next few months.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
145 Professor Ray Jones
Welcome back. I can’t believe it’s been ten years since the start. So many wonderful guests and content ! Please keep the comments and suggestions coming.
So, what a great start to the new season.`
Dr Ray Jones is Emeritus Professor of Social Work at Kingston University and St. George’s, University of London, and a registered social worker. He has 50 plus years experience in children’s and adults’ social work and social care as a residential worker, social work practitioner, manager, teacher and researcher. From 1992 to 2006 he was director of social services in Wiltshire (and Swindon). He was the first chief executive of the Social Care Institute for Excellence, and has been deputy chair and chair of the British Association of Social Workers. From 2008 to 2016 he was professor of social work at Kingston University and St George’s, University of London. He has been a visiting professor at the University of Exeter and at the University of Bath and is an honorary fellow of the University of Gloucestershire. He has led inquiries following the deaths of children and adults, from 2009 to 2013 was the independent chair of Bristol’s Safeguarding Children Board, and from 2010 until 2016, reporting to the children’s minister, oversaw children’s services and child protection improvement in five areas of England. In 2013-2014 he was appointed by the Welsh Assembly to advise on the Welsh Social Services and Well-Being Bill. He has also advised on social services development in Russia and in Slovenia. He is the author of eight books including ‘The Story of Baby P: Setting the Record Straight’, which was published by Policy Press in July 2014, which informed a BBC Television documentary, and with a second edition published in February 2017. ‘In Whose Interest? The Privatisation of Child Protection and Social Work’ was published by Policy Press in December 2018, and his most recent book ‘A History of the Personal Social Services in England’ was published by Palgrave Macmillan in summer 2020 and re-printed in 2021. He is a regular press columnist and media commentator. In 2017 he received the Social Worker of the Year Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Social Work’, and in 2021 was awarded an honorary doctorate in civil law by the University of East Anglia. In 2022 he was appointed to undertake the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care in Northern Ireland.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by Hello All ! Summer pause !
Back in August with, I hope, another 10 years of fantastic guests.
145 programmes with those who protect the vulnerable.
Thank all of you for your support.
by 
144 Sir Peter Wanless Part 2
A continuation of the reflection on 10 years with the NSPCC.
We develop the conversation to look more into the future and look for new or untested ideas from the wider world. Also talk more on NSPCC’s plans to add to online safety. Peter was also reflective on the organisation’s campaigning role. What risks and challenges are increasing due to the need for more public attention and urgency as well as more extensive resources.? Should we not look to see much more reference and specificity in political manifestos to safeguarding and child protection ? Our conversation develops one or two more paths.
We talk about the changing and expanding nature of safeguarding children with the complexities of the internet, traffiking, modern day slavery and much more. The NSPCC is is focussed on the UK but cannot ignore the threats from the wider world.
www.nspcc.org.uk and the helpline help@nspcc.org.uk
Check out the websites and the many initiatives in addition to the children’s helpline.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by
143 Sir Peter Wanless. 10 years at NSPCC
Sir Peter Wanless. 10 tears at NSPCC where he has been the Chief Executive since June 2013. The charity’s longstanding purpose is to prevent cruelty to children, something it seeks to achieve through a mixture of service delivery, research, influencing, advocacy and campaigning. Among the NSPCC’s http://nspcc.org.uk direct services are Childline, 0800 1111 a confidential helpline for any young person with nowhere else to turn, the NSPCC Helpline help@nspcc.org.uk for any adult with a worry or concern about a child, the Child protection in Sport Unit and a network of service centres across the UK focused particularly on abuse and neglect in the early years and child sexual abuse. The NSPCC has been particularly prominent of late in building the child protection case for online regulation of social media services.Peter was previously Chief Executive of what was then the Big Lottery Fund and a Director at the Department for Education between 1998 and 2008. He is on the Boards of Somerset County Cricket Club and the Government’s National Leadership Centre. He received a knighthood in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List for services to children and charity.
We talk of the priorities driving the NSPCC in these challenging times. Supporting young people first, keeping staff and volunteers safe and well and looking to maintain the donation base to continue vital work.
Peter outlines the strategic position of the charity and the constant focus on adapting to threats and challenges to young people. Their work in schools, their combatting of online risks and the increasing workload on their well established Childline service. Training and research are cornerstones of the charity and his job in overseeing all aspects include partnerships with all colleague services, both statutory and voluntary.
The conversation ranges from Peter’s assessment of the whole national response to safeguarding children , especially from the recently published National Inquiry, to his personal views on successful progress and continuing challenges.
Part 2 of this podcast coming mid May ! when we will develop more of the issues and look for short and long term solutions.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
142 Traffiking Investigations Manager
Adam Zarnowski currently serves as the Open-Source Intelligence and Traffiking Investigations Manager for the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (www.followmoneyfightslavery.org). He is a former United States federal officer and holds a master’s degree in Investigations specializing in Digital Forensics alongside a graduate certificate in Trafficking in Persons Investigations from the University of New Haven. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northern Kentucky University.
Adam has dedicated his life to eradicating slavery from an early age. While serving as an investigator, Adam also spends much of his free time researching the sociocultural landscape to better understand how groups and individuals become vulnerable to trafficking and slavery in the first place. He has published a number of articles detailing his work and has additionally spoken at the Hague in the Netherlands as to his findings investigating war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.
We talk of the enormity of the task and the dedication of hundreds of people working to combat traffiking and slavery in all its forms. Adam has also been consistantly academically interested in what causes this criminal behaviour in individuals and fuels this chronic cancer in our communities. As far as the general public is concerned the clear message is ‘ if you see something, say something’ .
More digitally aware volunteers are needed and training support will be given after appropriate vetting so , if you could put your name forward , look on the ATII site to take it further.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fQhykopgqE
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
141 Follow the Money Fight Slavery
Superior, Montana, United States
The links for resources we offer and events we are putting on: Training https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/training/
Resources https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/resources/ Events upcoming https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/about/events/ April Annual Summit and Child Safety Symposium, June Darkwebathon is an opportunity for those in the space of Cryptocurrency to engage in tracing possible criminal behavior using Cryptocurrency and provide that intelligence to law enforcement using Blockchain analytics tools.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
140 Supply Chain Auditing
Supply Chain Auditing is the process of scrutinising companies and their many suppliers to check if they comply with what we would call ethical business practice. Fair treatment and safety of workforces along with transparency from supplier to consumer is the gold standard. So often this does not exist.
The exploitation of workers and often their enslavement is endemic to much of what we consume, wear or use in our daily lives. Enforcement agencies around the world are always attempting to interrupt , rescue and prosecute but the sheer scale can be overwhelming.We do not check hard enough, ask the tough questions or put ourselves out enough to demand better clarity, especially in food and clothing, about what conditions exist in their production.
Leon Reed is the CEO of Verisio Limited, http://Verisio.com a company that has developed from carrying out social compliance audits to providing end-to-end ESG solutions for businesses around the world. Leon has always had a passion for promoting human rights and has found that consultancy and audits are a proven package to achieve sustainable change. Since the introduction of the UK Modern Slavery Act in 2015, Leon has paved the way in helping companies comply. Verisio now runs retailer-driven programmes that encompass all aspects of ESG, combining his many years of auditing experience with his business consultancy skills.
More information at the following sites.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/verisio-ltd/
https://www.modernslaveryhelpline.org
https://www.theapsca.org Association of Social Complience Auditors.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
139 Human Traffiking 3
Matt Richardson is the Director of Intelligence and Investigations with the Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII) and returns to the podcast to explain his work and look deeper into the impact of this worldwide activity.
https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/
Oxford dictionary definition of human traffiking ——-the unlawful act of transporting or coercing people in order to benefit from their work or service, typically in the form of forced labour or sexual exploitation.
- In this third episode we talk about the implications and protocol for working with the dark web. the upcoming documentary featuring Matt called Dark Highway,the personal psycological impact on those working to expose traffikers.
- We also cover the rise in self generated child sexual abuse material–often as a result of grooming and co-ersive activity.
- Sextortion–blackmail after soliciting sexualised photos and the rise in numbers of teenage boy victims targeted by fake young girls.
Matt is an international speaker and expert on OSINT and Darkweb Intelligence with extensive experience in leading and coordinating complex investigations on sex trafficking and CSAM offenders. Matt co-authored a study titled “Expert Analysis of Open Source Material Relating To Child Sexual Abuse Material And Sex Trafficking Occurring On OnlyFans.com” with the University of New Haven’s Center for Forensic Investigations of Trafficking in Persons (CFITP). Matt is a member of the Rogers Communications Cybersecurity Catalyst team where he collaborates with industry experts to generate products and education on a variety of cybersecurity topics related to online crimes. He is often sought out as a subject matter expert by the media with TV, Film, Radio, and print coverage in Canada and is a main contributor and on camera character for “Dark Highway”, a Human Trafficking documentary that is being televised in Canada and the U.S. He works in partnership with Timea’s Cause to educate and prevent sex trafficking and was a featured speaker of the 1st Canadian National Summit on Child Sexual Exploitation. Matt is passionate in his role with the Anti Human Traffiking Initiative where as part of a team of experts he uses his skills on a daily basis to help make children, families, and communities safer places.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
138 Anti Human Traffiking Initiative Part 2
Human Traffiking Part 2 continues the focus on the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII)
https://followmoneyfightslavery.org/
Matt Richardson is the Director of Intelligence and Investigations with the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII).
He is international speaker and expert on OSINT and Darkweb Intelligence with extensive experience in leading and coordinating complex investigations on sex trafficking and CSAM offenders. Matt co-authored a study titled “Expert Analysis of Open Source Material Relating To Child Sexual Abuse Material And Sex Trafficking Occurring On OnlyFans.com” with the University of New Haven’s Center for Forensic Investigations of Trafficking in Persons (CFITP). Matt is a member of the Rogers Communications Cybersecurity Catalyst team where he collaborates with industry experts to generate products and education on a variety of cybersecurity topics related to online crimes. He is often sought out as a subject matter expert by the media with TV, Film, Radio, and print coverage in Canada and is a main contributor and on camera character for “Dark Highway”, a Human Trafficking documentary that is being televised in Canada and the U.S. He works in partnership with Timea’s Cause to educate and prevent sex trafficking and was a featured speaker of the 1st Canadian National Summit on Child Sexual Exploitation. Matt is passionate in his role with the Anti Human Traffiking Initiative where as part of a team of experts he uses his skills on a daily basis to help make children, families, and communities safer places.
We talk of the risks to unaccompanied young refugees and the ways to remain focussed in such overwhelming work. One child at a time has to be the rule to avoid practical and emotional overload.
The third part in this series, in January, will, among other things, look at success stories, detail cases that can be talked about and offer ways that we all can be more alert and aware of this chronic threat to our communities.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by
137 Anti human trafficking ATII
Larry Cameron BCEC, CCI, CTCE, DEI, MDI, TINV, TG2
Larry has 20+ years experience in the technology industry. He is the Chief Information Security Officer at the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII) and an OSINT Investigator for the National Child Protection Task Force (NCPTF). He is a certified Digital Evidence Investigator (DEI), Mobile Device Investigator (MDI), Triage Investigator (TINV), Certified Cryptocurrency Investigator (CCI), CipherTrace Certified Examiner (CTCE) and holds over 50 other Industry, IT & Security certifications. He manages technology in multiple disciplines and works with local, state, federal and international Law Enforcement on Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation investigations.
Training and speaking to communities all around the world, Larry is only too aware of the scale of the problem and the need for more awareness raising. Resources to combat what is an epidemic of abuse covering sex trafficking, slave labour, cyber and financial abuse to name a few and the huge involvement of organised crime.
Recently Larry started a new position as Head of Cyber Security at CRO Cyber Rights Organization for the United Nations
The Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII) combats global human trafficking by promoting corporate social responsibility through increasing awareness, facilitating intelligence integration and technology advancement, and encouraging strategic data collaboration.
The Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative, a 501(c)3 US-based nonprofit, aims to disrupt the market of human trafficking, child exploitation and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through the advancement of preventions, detection, investigation and reporting mechanisms. ATII is committed to raising awareness and developing strategic partnerships with intelligence, technology, and data leaders.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
136 Ann McLaughlin Author
Ann McLaughlin Author of WORLD CHANGE-MAKER: BUILD SKILLS IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENt & SOCIAL WORK.
Ann discusses her book, World Change-Maker: Build Skills in International Development and Social Work. Ann’s book is full of stories – as is this podcast – to help people understand how half the world lives. People who grasp these gritty realities and have the essential skills are more likely to get an international job.
Ann worked 20 years as a psychotherapist/ social worker and then worked in international development. For the last 20 years she has directed NGOabroad (http://ngoabroad.com/) providing international career counseling. Ann was asked to write a book on international social work. Ann knew that we did not need one more book on the problems, but a book on the practical skills needed on the ground. Change-making skills are much the same to create change in your own community or country as those skills needed internationally.
See more about World Change-Maker: Build Skills in International Development and Social Work here: https://www.annmcl.com/world-change-maker-build-skills-in-international-development-and-social-work-2/ The easiest way to get it is online from the publisher: https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/world-change-maker/
Though many of NGOabroad’s international volunteer programs are closed due to COVID, if you answer Questionnaire found on the website and send with resume we can figure out where you best fit. https://ngoabroad.com/. International career counseling and trainings are still available. Ann is currently working on two follow-up books. She also offers Transformation and Empowerment Coaching to those who want to become change-makers in their own community or country. See https://www.annmcl.com/
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
135 a small but important charity
Grantown Remakery is a small but important charity which I talked about, a year or so ago, with George Livingstone as the guest.It seemed a good idea to see how they weathered the pandemic and did George have views on how the wider community could support the causes and challenges they saw.
It is one of dozens of charities created to improve the quality of life of several vulnerable groups, whose chances in life are threatened by no fault of their own and an underfunded statutory provision. They strive to help balance inequality and create opportunity.
Grantown Remakery http://www.grantownremakery.org.uk provides Employment Skills Development, volunteering opportunities and support for Young People who may be having difficulty in Transition from School to Further Education and Employment, Adults with a Disability or with Mental Ill-Health, supporting all in their journey to recovery and towards fulfilment of their personal goals.
It aims to provide an alternative to landfill disposal by repairing, upgrading, recycling and reselling of goods through a Community based system. This helps pay for coaching and supervision
They have developed strong business relationships with both Partners and the Local Community to identify the best service for individuals in need of support and skills development within strong environmental awareness and action
We talk of the wider social trends and challenges faced by those they help. 3 strands of work for the 3 days they can afford to open.
1) Working with young learning disabled adults often isolated and lonely
2) Existing work with children helping to transition from school to further education.
3) developing a partnership with Job Centre Plus and 16 to 25 year olds who were deemed ‘not work ready’
It is a community social work scheme whose value to the area is significant, especially when the fall out from the pandemic adds to the existing challenges from rural poverty.
Contact them on Facebook or at their website http://www.grantownremakery.org or email info@grantownremakery.org.uk
OR phone 01479 873612
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
134 Magnolia. Missing Children Ukraine
Marina Lypovetska, head of 116 000 in Ukraine and head of projects in NGO “Magnolia”, board member of International Federation Missing Children Europe, talks to me about her work and the huge challenges they face. The difficulties of tracing missing children is obviously compounded by the impact of the pandemic and now the war.
In her own words:-
“From my early youth, I’d been definitely sure about what I shall do to make a difference – so I graduated National Dragomanova University as a master’s degree in psychology. Then I started to work “in fields” with children and families in difficult living conditions as a governmental social worker. After a few years, when I felt, that I can be more helpful in non-governmental area, I’ve joined NGO “Magnolia”s team. I am 8 years here and this way was great, and now, despite of war, I am planning to strengthen my organization to ensure needed support to families and missing children.”
NGO Magnolia http://magnolia.org.ua/en was founded more than 20 years ago by a group of journalists to protect the rights of vulnerable children and families and to support the search for
missing children through publicity appeals.
Cooperating with almost 30 TV channels and advertising agencies, we share posters of missing children and video appeals from their families.
Since its start, NGO Magnolia contributed to the search for more than 2200 children (before war) and more than 2367 since the start of war.
In 2015, NGO “Magnolia” became a co-founder of The Ukrainian Child Rights Network. In 2017, NGO “Magnolia” became a co-founder of the coalition “Against tortures”. In November 2017, they joined in the European Federation for Missing and Sexually Exploited Children ‘Missing Children Europe’ https://missingchildreneurope.eu/ . In 2018, NGO “Magnolia” joined Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum as a member.
If someone needs their help in search for missing children , you can contact them via chat on their Facebook pages https://www.facebook.com/NGOMagnolia https://www.facebook.com/detipoisk or Telegram-bot @missingchildren_bot
The hot-line for missing children is 116 000 https://missingchildreneurope.eu/hotline-116-000/
You can support NGO “Magnolia” here: http://magnolia.org.ua/en/content/donate https://help.missingchildren.org.ua/
sound has 20 second delay
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
133 Barnardo’s Ukrainian Helpline
Barnardo’s Ukrainian helpline has been operational since March 2022 and now gets over 800 calls per week. Those calling have changed from UK families with practical questions to now, when far more refugees with complex reactions are asking for help.
Andrew Tubman is a Helplines Manager with Barnardo’s, the largest national children’s charity in the UK. Andrew joined Barnardo’s during the covid pandemic to lead the delivery of ‘Boloh’ a Helpline for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic families – the first of it’s kind in the UK. This has included Helpline projects to support refugees, asylum seekers and Hong Kong British Nationals arriving in the UK. Previously he worked for NSPCC’s Childline service and has over 10 years’ experience within Children’s Helplines, as well as in education and leaving care services. He leads on the organisations development, mobilisation and delivery of Helpline services including the Ukrainian Support Helpline.
In response to the Ukraine war Barnardo’s mobilised the Ukrainian Support Helpline in March 2022 to support refugees and host families. The Helpline offers advice, signposting, emotional support, practical support and free therapeutic, multilingual counselling.
The Helpline is open:
– Monday – Friday 10.00am-8.00pm
– Saturday 10.00am-3.00pm
You can contact the Helpline on 0800 148 8586 or email ukrainiansupport@barnardos.org.uk
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
132 Children & Families Across Borders (CFAB)
Carolyn Housman is the CEO of Children and Families Across Borders ( CFAB) the UK’s only NGO with a dedicated international social work team, Children and Families Across Borders http://www.cfab.org.uk, which alerts social services and professionally assesses long-term care options for children domestically and in 130 countries to ensure every child has a safe home. She is Vice-Chair of the Global Social Service Workforce Alliance, whose mission is to promote and strengthen the social service workforce to provide services when and where they are most needed, alleviate poverty, challenge and reduce discrimination, promote social justice and human rights, and prevent and respond to violence and family separation. She is also a Professional Advisory Committee member of the International Social Service network and Chair of the Cross-border Child Safeguarding Working Group, comprised of social work leaders within Home Office, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the Department for Education, Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) and the Children’s Commissioner’s Office. She has co-authored ground-breaking research into the practice, challenges and solutions in cross-border child protection and child placements. She regularly lectures in university degree courses on international challenges in social work. During her career, she has successfully advocated for and monitored the implementation of system change in different countries – from advising governments in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia on setting up National Referral Mechanisms for trafficked persons through to leading Inter-American Development Bank seminars on developing local procurement systems for sustainable development in Guatemala. She has broad international experience, having worked for Amnesty International (USA), the Washington Office on Latin America (USA), the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (Austria), and, currently, Children and Families Across Borders (UK).
Eve Joy Wilson is a UK-registered social worker. She has an undergraduate degree in Linguistics from SOAS and a postgraduate degree in Social Work from Goldsmiths College. She trained with CFAB in 2018, and practiced in a local authority children’s safeguarding team before returning to CFAB in 2021. 
She is interested in social work activism and collaborative campaigning, and co-organises SWots, a monthly reading and discussion group for social care workers. You can join the Swots mailing list by emailing swotsgroup@gmail.com and reach Eve Joy on Twitter @evejoywilson. You can also sign up to the first SWots session of the year on parent advocacy and empowerment in child protection here: SWots 1: Parent voices for change in the US & UK with Tim, Rich & Clarissa Tickets, Wed 10 Aug 2022 at 17:00 | Eventbrite
Call CFAB on 0207 735 8941
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by 
131 Lena Dominelli on Ukraine
I talk with Professor Lena Dominelli on Ukraine. We talk of her new book ‘Putin’s War in Ukraine’ and the challenges of reconstruction and disaster management. She is a qualified social worker and holds a Chair in Social Work at the University of Stirling. She was previously Co-Director at the Institute of Hazards, Risk and Resilience (2010-2016) at Durham University. Lena has specific interests in projects on climate change and extreme weather events including drought, floods, cold snaps; wild fires; earthquakes, volcanic eruptions; disaster interventions; ‘vulnerability’ and resilience; health pandemics; community engagement; coproduction and participatory action research. She has created green social work as a new paradigm for theory and practice. Her research on disasters includes funding from the ESRC, EPSRC, NERC, SSHRC, the Department of International Development and Wellcome Trust. Lena is a prolific writer and has published widely in social work, social policy and sociology including topics covering children and families, child abuse and domestic violence, masculinity, and older adults. She is Director of the MSc in Disaster Interventions and Humanitarian Aid starting soon at Stirling. Lena currently chairs the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) Committee on Disaster Interventions, Climate Change and Sustainability and the Special Interest Group on Disaster Interventions for the British Association of Social Workers (BASW). She has been supporting social workers and providing guidelines on Covid-19 since early January 2020 beginning in China. Lena has represented the social work profession at the United Nations discussions on climate change (UNFCCC), since Cancun, Mexico in 2010 and was President of IASSW from 1996-2004. Her work has been recognised globally through various honours bestowed upon her.My current research interests include: Covid-19. Disaster Interventions including health pandemics, climate change, extreme weather events, flooding, droughts, earthquakes. Working with children and families, including child abuse and neglect. Working with older people, particularly around developing resilience in old age. Masculinity in disasters, including substance misuse and intimate partner violence. Globalisation, neoliberalism and social policy. Feminist Social Work. Anti-Racist Social Work.
Dominelli L (2022) Putin’s War in Ukraine: A challenge for social workers and others. University of Stirling Public Policy Blog [Blog post] 19.04.2022. https://policyblog.stir.ac.uk/2022/04/19/putins-war-in-ukraine-a-challenge-for-social-workers-and-others/
First paragraph of the book reads: Putin’s War in Ukraine. Words fail to describe the mixture of emotions and thoughts that crowd my mind as I listen to the horrendous stories narrated by social workers in Ukraine. I have been in contact with them since 24 February 2022 when they first contacted me to ask for help. Since then, I have organised the Social Work for Peace Virtual Network (SW4P) to respond to their expressed needs. SW4P is one of a number of social work groups offering support to Ukraine. Fortunately, I have had a generous outpouring of offers of help through it, and I thank the many social workers in the UK and elsewhere who have responded positively. Some have even stressed their willingness to go to Ukraine and contribute from the frontline – courageous beyond measure or foolhardy? It depends on your point of view
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS
by by