Supporting newly qualified social workers

Relational Activism in Social Work

In this episode, Tim Fisher and Rich Devine kick off 2025 with reflections on personal and professional goals, recent events, and an inspiring conversation with guest Vicki Shevlin, creator of Social Work Sorted. The discussion explores social work practice, personal growth, and the profession’s challenges.

Key Highlights:

1. Personal Reflections and Goals:

•Rich emphasizes living an ego-balanced life, inspired by James Hollis, while Tim focuses on reading and lifelong learning.

•They discuss balancing professional aspirations with personal well-being.

2. Love Shows Up Event:

•A celebration of the “Love Shows Up” Valentine’s Day event and the importance of relational activism in social work.

3. Guest Interview – Vicki Shevlin:

•Vicki shares her transition to independent practice, her mantra “Go where the love is,” and her support for newly qualified social workers (NQSWs).

•The discussion covers boundaries, empathy, and authentic family connections.

4. The Role of Social Media:

•Vicki reflects on building a social work community online and balancing its opportunities and challenges.

5. Final Reflections:

•The episode closes with a reading from Eckhart Tolle, focusing on acceptance and awareness.

Links:
Vicki Shevlin: https://www.socialworksorted.com/aboutme
Vicki's podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1926820
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/
Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme
Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/
Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/
Rich Devine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/