The Creation of the European Social Work Research Association. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, Brian J.; Sharland, Elaine
• Other Names: Jackson Jerrold guest-editor.; McKay Mary guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Research on social work practice. Volume 25:Number 5(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 623
• Page End: 627
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: international collaboration -- research infrastructure -- research management -- research strategy; Social service -- Periodicals; 361.3205
• DOI: 10.1177/1049731514558686
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-7315

Abstract

As the social work profession matures, the need for robust knowledge becomes more pressing. Greater coordination is required to develop the research community and an infrastructure to support this nationally and internationally. This article discusses the foundation, in 2014, of the European Social Work Research Association and its roots in the annual European Conference for Social Work Research series since 2011. Discussion focuses on the Association's context and aims, its principles, developments, and future plans. The initial development of the Association has been very encouraging; it has attracted over 250 members in its initial months, including individuals from 19 of 28 European Union countries, and 3 of 23 European non-EU countries, as well as six countries outside Europe. Continuing efforts are required to encompass the diversity of practice, organization and research, and for the Association to be truly inclusive of social work research and researchers across the whole of Europe.