'It just fundamentally reflects the best of social work': Social Worker's Practice Understandings and Experience of the Best Interests Assessor role. (4th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buckton, Wayne
• Is Part Of: British journal of social work. Volume 53:Number 1(2023)
• Page Start: 296
• Page End: 314
• Publication Date: 2022-08-04
• Subjects: deprivation of liberty -- professional identity -- social justice -- social work; Social service -- Periodicals; Social workers -- Periodicals; 361
• DOI: 10.1093/bjsw/bcac147
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-3102

Abstract

Abstract: This article explores narratives of professional social workers tasked with undertaking the formal para-legal role of Best Interests Assessor under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) scheme. Wholesale reform of this practice has been debated in recent years and legislative changes have passed through Parliament—the Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS). The process and debate preceding this change were, however, marked by a relative marginalisation of accounts and critical opinions of Best Interests Assessors (BIAs) themselves. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample group of BIAs from a variety of social work teams within a single Local Authority. These accounts are explored using a thematic analysis underpinned by Ritzer's McDonaldization theory and Sayer's work on Contributive Justice. The work considers the professional identities of the BIAs within and beyond their employing organisation in association with social justice and human rights. Barriers and supports to practice are considered in relation to the organisational, technological and legal contexts of assessment work under the DoLS. The study holds relevance for social workers and organisations in contemplating the transition to LPS and workforce conversions to the Approved Mental Capacity Professional. Abstract : This article considers accounts of adult service social workers in the para-legal role of Best Interests Assessor (BIA). A qualitative study seeking to explore how practitioners see their role in terms of achieving social justice and human rights for those adults who lack mental capacity on matters of care and residence. What constrains and enables practice is charted via the organisational, technological and legal contours of assessment work under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. The work considers what types of experience and influence form and maintain the professional identities of BIAs in a practice that is directed to promote social justice and human rights. The study holds relevance for social workers and organisations in contemplating the transition to Liberty Protection Safeguards.