Global and Local Issues in the Training of ‘Overseas’ Social Workers

The recruitment of ‘overseas’ workers is becoming commonplace in England (and other parts of the UK). This paper is based upon the author's experience of providing training for Eastern European social workers, who were recruited as a result of staff shortages. The analysis turns on a consideration of global and local issues, and argues that as part of a recruitment policy, training should be routine and focused upon the specific aspects of ‘local’ need, given the broader ‘global’ aspect of European social work education. The paper identifies the content of such training to ensure it meets employer and employee need. Its conclusions place this within the wider context of social work education.