§ Mr. Meacherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what has been the number of social workers in each of the last 10 years; and what has been the percentage change in numbers each year.
§ Mr. John PattenThe table gives information from 1975 to 1983, the latest year for which figures are available. Prior to 1975 figures were collected on a different basis and are not comparable with those shown.
Social Work staff* employed by Social Services Departments England 1975–1983 As at 30 September Number † of Social Work staff in post Annual Percentage change in numbers 1975 20,400.4 — 1976 21,181.8 +36 1977 21,533.3 +1.7 1978 22,163.0 +2.9 1979 22,733.6 +2.6 1980 22,991.4 +1.1 1981 22,950.7 –0.2 1982 22,989.7 +0.2 1983 23,713.6 +3.1 * Includes senior social workers, social workers, community workers, trainee social workers and social work (welfare) assistants. †Expressed in whole-time equivalents.