McNulty supports striking children's services social workers
SDLP MLA Justin McNulty has expressed his full support for Children's Services Social Workers who have been forced to take strike action this week to demand more support and safer working conditions.
He praised their dedication in the face of an increasingly demanding environment and called on the Minister of Health to engage meaningfully with Trade Unions to find a sustainable resolution.
Mr McNulty said: "Our Children's Services Social Workers are at the frontline of dealing with the most difficult and sensitive cases, protecting vulnerable children from harm and supporting families in crisis. Their work is incredibly demanding, emotionally draining, and requires huge commitment and compassion. For them to feel forced into taking strike action is a clear signal that the system is at a breaking point.
“Staff are facing unmanageable caseloads, significant staff shortages, and the long-term impact of under-resourcing on a daily basis. The conditions they are working under are simply not sustainable. They are being asked to do more with less, and the strain is showing. High caseloads mean less time for each of the 700 looked-after children in the Southern Trust, which increases risk and puts all service users with their families and social workers in an impossible position. This isn't about pay; it's about the very fabric of our child protection services.
“I was humbled to stand on the picket with our Children’s Services Social Workers this week. I would like to thank the Southern Trust Chair, Ms. Eileen Mullan and new Chief Executive Mr Steve Spoerry for very graciously allowing an interruption to the Trust Board Meeting to hear the concerns of the Social Workers who spoke eloquently and directly imparting their major fears about staffing and children wellbeing.
“I have further tabled a priority question to the Minister of Health asking him what urgent actions are being taken by his Department to address workforce planning and Social Work staff workload, well-being, and safety concerns in the Southern Trust and to ensure children and their families get the timely support and care they need.
"The Department must come to the table with a serious plan that addresses the core issues social workers are facing.”