Episode 5: Power

Power influences every aspect of social work practice, from the relationships we build to the decisions we make. In this episode, our hosts explore what power means, the different forms it can take, and the positive and negative connotations often associated with it. Together, they discuss how social workers can recognise and manage power dynamics, use their professional influence to overcome barriers, and empower people they support while maintaining respectful, collaborative relationships. The conversation also includes practical tips for using power thoughtfully and ethically in everyday practice. The episode features responses to a question submitted by Matt, a newly qualified social worker, who shares a practice dilemma about navigating power in professional relationships. We’d love to hear your thoughts. What does power mean to you, and how has it shaped your practice? Get in touch and join the conversation. Key terms discussed in this episode Social justice Social justice is the principle that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources. Within social work, it underpins efforts to reduce inequality, challenge discrimination, and improve access to opportunities and support, particularly for people who experience disadvantage or marginalisation. Source: National Association of Social Workers. Social Justice Priorities. https://www.socialworkers.org/Advocacy/Social-Justice/Social-Justice-Priorities Psychological safety Psychological safety is a shared belief that people can speak up, ask questions, admit mistakes, raise concerns, or offer different perspectives without fear of embarrassment, punishment, or other negative consequences. It enables open communication, learning, and effective teamwork. Source: McKinsey & Company. What Is Psychological Safety? https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/mckinsey-explainers/what-is-psychological-safety Empowerment Empowerment is about creating the conditions that enable people to empower themselves—to feel stronger, more confident and hopeful, more capable of exerting control over their lives, and better equipped to exercise their rights (Innovative Resources, 2021). Within social work, practitioners support people to develop skills in self-determination, collaboration, and accessing relevant information. Source: The Social Work Graduate. Empowerment. https://www.thesocialworkgraduate.com/post/empowerment Person-centred care Person-centred care supports people to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. It is coordinated, tailored to the individual, and ensures people are always treated with dignity, compassion, and respect. Source: British Association of Social Workers (BASW). Person-Centred Care Made Simple. https://basw.co.uk/policy-and-practice/resources/person-centred-care-made-simple Mental capacity Mental capacity refers to a person’s ability to understand information, make decisions about their life, and communicate those decisions. Source: Mind. Mental Capacity Act 2005 – Capacity. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/legal-rights/mental-capacity-act-2005/capacity/