reforms’ implementation, despite being their architect.

They either believed he would have no effect (42%), on the grounds that only frontline practitioners and leaders can deliver change, or that he’d hinder the process because he lacked Daby’s understanding of the profession (42%).

Unlike his predecessor, MacAlister did not work as a social worker, though he founded and previously led the charity Frontline, whose fast-track programme has been training graduates to work in child protection social work since 2014.

Only 16% of respondents thought he would have a positive impact due to him previously having led the care review.

‘This is not in children’s best interests’
MacAlister’s appointment drew a mixed responses from practitioners commenting on the related article.

Diane Godfr said: “I feel this is not in the best interests of children. This person has no experience of social work – he’s an entrepreneur. I feel like quitting. I’m not happy with this decision at all.”

Jonathan Stanley said MacAlister’s new ministerial role removed “any accountability” from the government to scrutinise the care reforms.

“The government has dealt with the review and legislation as though there is consensus,” he added.

“Both are contested strongly. The appointment is a signal that no matter the scrutiny, the government will bulldoze onwards.”

‘He has worked hard in the sector’
However, another practitioner, Linda, believed MacAlister’s background was unfairly criticised.

“He was a teacher. His father was a social worker. He was invited by the government to lead on the development of the front line,” she said.

“He has clearly worked hard in the sector whether he was a social worker or not.”

Celebrate those who’ve inspired you
 Photo by Daniel Laflor/peopleimages.com/ AdobeStock
Do you have a colleague, mentor, or social work figure you can’t help but gush about?

Our My Brilliant Colleague series invites you to celebrate anyone within social work who has inspired you – whether current or former colleagues, managers, students, lecturers, mentors or prominent past or present sector figures whom you have admired from afar.

Nominate your colleague or social work inspiration by filling in our nominations form with a few paragraphs (100-250 words) explaining how and why the person has inspired you.

*Please note that, despite the need to provide your name and role, you or the nominee can be anonymous in the published entry*

If you have any questions, email our community journalist, Anastasia Koutsounia, at anastasia.koutsounia@markallengroup.com
 
 
children's social care policy, Janet Daby, Josh MacAlister, readers' take
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