A SENIOR Lecturer and Psychology graduate at the University of Worcester have both been elected as representatives for the British Association of Social Workers (BASW).

Peter Unwin has been elected as a Council Member for BASW’s UK Committee, while Masters student, Jo Smith, has been elected Student Rep for the BASW England Committee.

The pair gained both positions via a competitive national ballot of BASW membership.

“We are both very pleased to have gained these positions from which to better promote social work at a time when social work (undeservedly) has a poor reputation,” said Mr Unwin . “Jo’s position will be used to promote the benefits of joining a professional body among social work students nationwide and my role will be more concerned with governance and media.

“The University of Worcester has enjoyed a close working relationship with BASW since our Masters in Social Work course began seven years ago and we are looking forward to consolidating this relationship to the good of social work and reputation of the University as a leader in this field.”

The masters student, who gained a First Class Honours undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Worcester before joining the University’s Masters in Social Work, said she was overwhelmed to have been elected.

“I was so surprised,” said the 22-year-old. “But it’s fantastic as it now gives me the opportunity to work with BASW to promote their work and help develop future plans and hopefully make a real impact.”

For information on courses at University of Worcester visit, worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries call 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk.