Many changes have affected social work in Scotland in recent years.
Similar studies are under way in England and Northern Ireland.
Loss of direct contact with service users is a major reason for not seeking entry to management, and for not wishing to move higher in management structures. The way the department is managed' was identified by managers, social workers and residential workers as an important source of dissatisfaction. The most important cause of stress for managers and social workers is not being able to provide adequately for people's needs. Fifty five per cent say this happens at least once or twice a year. Staff at all levels show a strong interest in training, but only among managers and social workers does a majority hold a professional qualification in social work or social care.