1.żOn completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate a systematic understanding of the nature of risk and complexity in practice across the key areas of practice in social work.

Professional standards 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 3.14, 3.15

PCF 2,4,5

Knowledge & understanding
Learning
Enquiry

2. On completion of this module, you will be able to critically analyse the relationship between personal, societal, and cultural factors, including discrimination and oppression, and how these impact on the nature of risk and complexity in social work.

Professional standards 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 3.14, 3.15

PCF 2, 3, 5

Analysis
Problem solving

3.On completion of this module, you will be able to evaluate the application of a range of theoretical perspectives, social work values and skills to social work practice when working in complex or unpredictable contexts.

Professional standards 1.7, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7

PCF 1, 5,6,7

Analysis
Application

4. On completion of this module, you will evaluate complex issues both systematically and creatively to inform and articulate an evidence-informed professional opinion working with risk and complexity.

Professional standards: 1.2, 1.6, 2.1, 2.4, 3.1, 3.7. 3.12

PCF domains: 1, 2, 4., 6, 7. 8.

Problem solving
Application
Communication

Formative Assessment:

You will be provided with a three-generation case study this will form the basis of both formative and summative assessment.

Formative assessment will include;

Discussion groups to apply models of risk assessment to practice, considering both risk and protective factors in the family.

Summative assessment:

Assessment: A patchwork assessment evidencing all learning outcomes which must include

2000 word evidence informed analysis of the nature of risk and complexity in relation to one family member

2000 word evidence informed intervention plan for one family member

Feedback on a simulated practice experience

2000 word reflection on the feedback from the simulated practice experience

The case study for this assessment will be developed in partnership with key stakeholders, for example people with lived experience of social work and social work practitioners

All elements of assessment must be passed at 40 or above to successfully complete the module.

Building on the learning from level 5, this module will contextualise contemporary responses to working with risk and complexity in practice. Teaching and learning on the module will enable you to develop critical understanding of;

What we mean by complexity and risk in practice

The nature of uncertainty, professional judgement and ‘risk-taking’ in practice

The role of the social worker in working with adults, children and families whose lived experiences are shaped by risk and complexity

The impact of working with risk and complexity on social workers and organisations, and the strategies available to them to manage this impact in contemporary practice including multi-agency working

The intersecting nature of the factors that shape our understanding of risk and complexity, and the way that these impact on the lived experiences of adults, children and families

The complexities of decision-making use of power and the ethical dilemmas that arise in practice where these conflict with individual rights

Contemporary research, methods, models and tools that support assessment and intervention in complex or risky situations

The role of the social worker in safeguarding those who are assessed to be ‘at risk’, the legal framework that underpins this, and the theoretical perspectives that inform actions to safeguard them

Informed by current research and collaboration with key stakeholders including people with lived experience, the module will include analysis of the nature of risk and complexity in contemporary practice today, and the evidence base to inform social work interventions to respond to them.

Working with risk and complexity is a key element of social work practice. This module offers a unique opportunity to reflect on, and analyse, the way in which social workers support people through periods in their lives that are shaped by be high levels of risk or complexity, and who therefore may require statutory intervention to safeguard them. Considering contemporary research, and current social work interventions, the module will support you to develop your critical thinking and writing skills, and your confidence in applying the evidence base to practice.

Scheduled teaching and learning activities: 56 hours

To consist of
- 70 hours of whole group sessions, which will include participatory lectures and presentations by the module tutors, and where appropriate people with lived experience of social work.

Directed Independent study: 330 hours

- To consist of
- Accessing online resources
- Use of the VLE
- Independent reading to consolidate the knowledge introduced in the scheduled teaching and learning sessions
- Formative and summative assessment preparation

Dyke, C (2019) Writing Analytical Assessments in Social Work. St Albans: Critical Publishing

Hood, R (2018) Complexity in Social Work. London: Sage

Killick, C & Taylor, B (2020) Assessment, Risk & Decision Making in Social Work: An introduction. London: Learning Matters

Whittaker, A and Taylor, B (eds) (2020) Risk in Social Work Practice: Current Issues. London: Routledge

You will have access to a range of materials on Blackboard VLE including articles, lecture slides, and interactive activities. You will also be able to access a variety of digital material through our Library and specialist databases.