Reframing Social Work: A Thought-Provoking Event on Media Portrayals

On 14 January 2026, we welcomed social care professionals from Hammersmith & Fulham Council to the Irish Cultural Centre in Hammersmith for an insightful event exploring how social work is portrayed, perceived and reported in the media.

The event formed part of the NIHR-funded Social Care Research Capacity Building Programme, delivered through ARC Northwest London and Brunel University, and was hosted together with Hammersmith & Fulham Council.

As the only council in England to provide free home care, a policy now celebrating its tenth year, H&F brings a uniquely resident-focused perspective to this work, making the event particularly meaningful for our local social care community.

Attendees heard from leading researchers and practitioners, including Dr Maria Leedham, Dr Joe Hanley, and Dr Catherine Lynch, alongside journalists Maggie Fogarty and David Brindle. Together, they shared evidence and insights into how social workers are represented in UK media and how these narratives shape public perception and professional identity.

A particular highlight was Dr Maria Leedham’s session on portrayals of social workers on UK television, a topic that resonated strongly with delegates who often feel misrepresented in mainstream media.

Dr Joe Hanley explored why negative perceptions of social work continue to circulate, highlighting that when asked directly, the public are generally far more positive than those narratives suggest.

Maggie Fogarty shared how the BASW Social Work Journalism Awards, which she co-created in 2023, are helping to promote success stories and challenge persistent myths about the profession.

The event concluded with a panel discussion chaired by Adele Scott, Workforce Development Lead for H&F Council and an experienced Social Worker.