§ 81. Mr. Wolrige-Gordonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland which local authorities have now appointed directors of social work.
§ Mr. MacArthurasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many directors of social work have now been appointed; and in which areas.
Mr. MacArthnrasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what qualifications are required by his Department for applicants seeking appointment as directors of social work.
§ Mr. RossThe qualifications are described in a general circular about the Social Work (Scotland) Act, 1968, which was issued on the 19th December. I am circulating the relevant paragraphs in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
Extract from Circular No. S.W.6/1968 issued on 19th December, 1968
60. The post of director of social work is an important one which demands a person of good professional calibre. Until such time as qualifications are prescribed by the Secretary of State, persons should be regarded as eligible for the post if they hold a recognised 289W qualification in any branch of social work or social administration or in a closely related discipline. In addition, they should have experience at senior administrative level of the provision of social work services.
61. At the same time it must be recognised that many serving officers in social work services do not have a relevant professional qualification, and that these officers have a right to be considered for posts of director of social work in terms of their ability, experience and performance. The Secretary of State will, therefore, in compiling lists for the purposes of section 3, be prepared to consider as qualified persons who have no relevant professional qualifications but whose experience demonstrates the necessary capacities.
62. In applying these criteria the Secretary of State will have in mind also the particular features of each post, including the size of the local authority concerned.