Professor Clive Diaz explores psychoanalysis in social work practice — including transference, the unconscious and relational dynamics shaping care and professional relationships.

An Exploratory Action Research Study Independently completed for NYAS of the Side-by-Side Project Considering the Impact of Befriending and Mentoring Programmes for Care Leavers

Experts Lorna Stabler, Clive Diaz and Donald Forrester discuss why reform in children’s social care is so challenging, reflecting on research, culture and policy barriers.

This session introduces the Contextual Safeguarding approach developed by Dr Carlene Firmin, which challenges traditional child protection models that focus primarily on parenting capacity and home environments. Drawing on research from two local authorities, the session highlights how many risks to young people occur outside the family — in schools, peer groups, transport hubs and community spaces. It examines whether social workers have the capacity to assess and intervene not only with families but also with the wider contexts and relationships that shape young people’s lives. The session emphasises the need for a broader safeguarding network involving professionals and community members, including those working in public spaces, to create safer environments and more effective protection for young people facing extra-familial harm.