BASW England welcomes the ADASS Autumn 2025 Survey
BASW England's Adult Thematic Group have welcomed the 'comprehensive and balanced approach' of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) 2025 Autumn Survey.
The survey is sent to every Director of Adult Social Services in the 153 English councils with social care responsibilities.
The findings highlight the impact of increasing levels of complexity and need for adult social care, alongside the increasing costs, although does point out that the Casey Commission presents an opportunity for more fundamental adult social care reform.
Responding to the findings, Margaret Young and Carmen Colomina, co-chairs of the BASW England Adult Thematic Group, commented:
"It is essential that, when addressing these challenges and opportunities, the pivotal role of social workers across the system is fully recognised. Social workers are central to delivering the three shifts proposed by government—drawing on their organisational skills to make the best use of community resources, fostering connections, supporting people before crises escalate, and coordinating plans that meet both health and social care needs.
"Social workers are key to creating a collaborative culture where professionals work together for the benefit of the people they serve—focusing not on competing for budgets, but on achieving better outcomes for individuals and communities.
"This requires an environment where social workers are enabled and trusted to make professional decisions and exercise their judgement to strengthen the system, ensuring it is underpinned by social justice and ethical, professional social care outcomes.
"Through their relationship-based practice, social workers motivate and support individuals, families, and communities to recognise and build on their strengths—promoting independence, improving quality of life, breaking cycles of crisis, and freeing up valuable resources to be reinvested.
"This contribution spans both frontline practice and strategic decision-making. Their skills, knowledge, values, and capabilities are indispensable within multi-disciplinary teams and in shaping the future of Adult Social Care."
