Expectations versus Reality: Achieving Impact from Social Work Practitioner Research in Challenging Circumstances

Abstract

This reflective article examines the claim that social work practitioner research is more likely to lead to impact. We reflect on the impact that we achieved as part of a social work practitioner research within an acute hospital in the South-East of England. First, we explore the literature on social work practitioner research and impact. Second, we outline our original research project. Third, we examine the individual, organisational and cultural impact we believe we achieved before reflecting on how our views and motivation towards impact changed throughout the research journey. Fourth, we discuss the barriers to achieve our original impact aspirations and reflect on the factors influencing our energy and motivation to achieve impact. Finally, we reflect on the factors that enabled us to achieve impact.

Reflections from members of a collaborative social work practitioner–academic research team investigating the career progression experiences of black social workers

“…The perspectives testify to a collaborative research process, experienced as participatory and democratic, with Akilah working hard to create a safe and cohesive team space and spirit, where individual expertise and every voice were recognised and heard (Kong et al, 2023). There is a perception that social work practitioners do not engage in research because of their lack of confidence or competence (Power and Dean, 2023). However, our perspectives confirm that involvement in a research project helps practitioners develop the capability to apply research skills in several ways (Lunt and Shaw, 2015).…”

“…Several factors have been identified for collaborative social work research teams to work well together, including: that the research process is experienced as participatory, democratic and dialogical; that different personal-professional perspectives are recognised and validated; and that individual and different expertise are recognised and respected (Kong et al, 2023). Good collaboration also appreciates that knowledge production is a cooperative and circular process (Gray and Schubert, 2013), which can lead practitioners to reflect on the make-up of their professional identities (Power and Dean, 2023).…”