Introduction

Abstract

In this book we study the problems and dilemmas encountered by social workers as trade unionists, the distinctive aspects of social work trade unionism, and the way that the experiences of trade union struggle teaches social workers about trade union methods, tactics and strategies. The aim is to develop an understanding of the practical trade union experiences of social workers which allows the real basis for the strength and importance of social workers and their union organisation to be grasped. We should stress that this book is not a history of trade unionism in social work, although major aspects of that history will be covered by us. Neither is it an academic treatise on trade union organisation amongst social workers, although we have found it necessary to study the organisation, methods, tactics and aspirations of social work trade unionists. And, finally, it is not a disinterested study of social work trade unionism, because we believe that there needs to be a broad growth of trade union consciousness amongst social workers, thereby providing a powerful impetus to the regeneration of all welfare work in Britain.