This poster reports on preliminary findings from a research project which aims to identify factors that impact on how social workers practice in NHS hospitals, to inform teaching and training of hospital social workers (HSW). The project comprises three phases; Freedom of Information requests to local authorities and NHS Trusts; interviews with HSW across two local authority teams; and a questionnaire to gather information about the attitudes and experiences of HSW across the UK.

The first two phases of the project found that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant and ongoing impact on HSW. Most HSW teams are employed by the local authority but support designated NHS hospitals. During the pandemic, some teams moved to local authority premises, with a significant increase in homeworking. One such team reported difficulties maintaining relationships with ward staff; communication gaps; and prioritising safeguarding and mental capacity assessments when visiting the hospital. Other teams were situated within their ‘host’ hospital for the duration of the pandemic, and one such team reported strong relationships with ward staff, identifying themselves as an integral part of the hospital service. However, this team reported more distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic, due to fear and uncertainty about the virus; high numbers of deaths on the wards, as well as personal bereavements; and policies which restricted the autonomy of patients. Some HSW felt that changes (such as limiting care home choice) created in response to a national emergency were now embedded in practice, to the detriment of patients.

This research adds to evidence that there is an urgent need, at a national level, to recognise the medium to long-term impact of the pandemic on HSW, and to understand the key role that HSW play in protecting the rights of NHS patients.