asked the Minister for Health the number of qualified social workers employed by each health board; and if he will make a statement on the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Workers.
7.
As at 21st January, 1974, which is the latest date for which the information is available the following numbers of qualified social workers were employed by health boards:
Health Board: Eastern, 16; Midland, 2; Mid Western, 1; North Eastern —; North Western 8; South Eastern, 3; Southern, 9; Western, 1—40.
Forty-five additional posts have been approved by my Department and arrangements for filling vacancies are in train. In addition, 61 qualified social workers were employed by voluntary agencies as at 21st January, 1974. These agencies work in close co-operation with health boards on the provision of community care and are subsidised by the boards in respect of services rendered.
The recruitment of social workers has been stimulated by improved salary scales negotiated within the terms of the national pay agreement, and health boards are now having some success in attracting qualified personnel from Britain.
In addition to normal recruitment, a trainee scheme has been introduced under which health boards are sponsoring candidates who have obtained places on university courses leading to a professional qualification in social work. As a result of last year's scheme six professionally trained social workers will be available to health boards for at least two years as from October, 1974, while 30 applications are being considered for sponsorship for courses commencing this year. These trainees can serve either with health boards or certain voluntary agencies following completion of professional training.
It is intended to continue this sponsorship scheme in future years. In addition a pilot scheme is being introduced this year under which one trainee with a basic degree or diploma in social science will be appointed by each health board in the expectation of sponsorship for professional training in 1975 should they secure places on a course leading to a professional qualification.
Moreover, the National Social Service Council are offering scholarships to promote the professional training of social workers in the service of voluntary agencies. Three such scholarships were awarded last year and four are to be offered this year.
Arrangements are in train also for the provision of refresher courses for senior and supervisory social worker personnel in the service of health boards and voluntary agencies. The first of three courses will commence next month.