Group support for transformational social work education: a study of the Black Academics Forum (BAF)

Authors

  • Prospera Tedam University of Northampton
  • Gurbax Matoo University of Northampton
  • Irine Mano University of Northampton
  • Sukhwinder Singh University of Northampton

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1921/gpwk.v25i2.892

Abstract

The importance of formal and informal support for professional social workers cannot be overemphasised and this is true for social work academics who view themselves as belonging to minority groups. This paper outlines the development of the Black Academics Forum (BAF) within the Division of Social Work at the University of Northampton as a strategy to transform social work education for students, its members and ultimately for users of social work services. The benefits of BAF are considered within the context of feeling ‘lost inside space’ and providing a forum to self define whilst drawing upon the values of belonging, acceptance and trust. The challenges and limitations are considered alongside aspirations for the future of the group.

Author Biographies

Prospera Tedam, University of Northampton

Senior Lecturer in Social Work

Gurbax Matoo, University of Northampton

Senior Lecturer in Social Work

Irine Mano, University of Northampton

Lecturer in Social Work

Sukhwinder Singh, University of Northampton

Senior Lecturer in Social Work

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Published

2016-03-23

How to Cite

Tedam, P., Matoo, G., Mano, I., & Singh, S. (2016). Group support for transformational social work education: a study of the Black Academics Forum (BAF). Groupwork, 25(2), 89-111. https://doi.org/10.1921/gpwk.v25i2.892