Barnardo's chief in row over 'simplistic' social work views

In an interview with The Observer at the weekend, Narey reportedly called for less effort in "fixing families that can't be fixed" and for social workers to be braver about removing children at risk.

However, BASW chief executive Hilton Dawson has branded his comments "too simplistic".

Dawson said: "Interventions from non-social workers such as Martin Narey are all very interesting but his approach is far too simplistic to be helpful.

"Instead of simple slogans that ignore the current crisis on the front line, Martin Narey should join with the professional organisation for social workers in the UK in campaigning to raise the status and standing of social work."

Narey defended his comments saying that they should be put in context of a range of other improvements in social care he has long been calling for.

This includes supporting families with parenting training and ensuring foster care is the first option of care.

Narey said: "In everything I have said, not just over the past two days but for some years now, I have been loudly supportive of social workers, which some might contrast with the apparent muteness of Mr Dawson. BASW needs to understand who its friends are."