Wow! it's been a whole month since the conference:Social Media for
social work. We had a great turnout on
the day and very positive evaluations of the sessions (although more time to
digest information and discuss the sessions was requested in the feedback). Our participants really enjoyed the range of presentations
and workshops and came away with clear plans for what they might implement in
practice: we even had a few Twitter converts on the day. For those unable to attend,
or who have missed our dissemination activities since the conference see the link here: Learning Wheel which captures most of the themes and presentation slides and activities (you will need a QR code reader to access the presentations)
We heard from practitioners across Scotland who are using
social media platforms really effectively to engage with carers (see for example: Aberdeenshire:Fostering and Adoption), and in another service where Facebook is used to support care leavers. Several presenters showcased their projects using apps
for training and development and a new service user feedback app. The social
media for social work App was also used to engage practitioners in a
fascinating discussion about implications and barriers to of using social media
in practice: Social Media App presentation
The really great outcome form the day is the several fabulous
contributions to the Innovation Station. Practitioner and academics who work
with a variety of service user groups
came up with some exciting ideas for integrating digital technology and social media
which the conference team will be looking at in more depth with these innovators to take forward over
the coming months.
It was widely acknowledged by participants that this
event was only just the start and ongoing support would be needed to integrate
social media and digital technology into practice arenas. How lucky we are in
Scotland to have IRISS and the support of SSSC to enable these developments in
the future.
