BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY
FACULTY OF HEALTH
SCHOOL OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Department of Social Work
Portfolio Year 1
BSC HONS SOCIAL WORK
Law and Professional Practice 1
(Module no: GM4208)
Issue Date: February 2010
Student Forename
Student Surname
Personal Tutor Name
Placement Start Date
Placement End Date
Portfolio Hand in Date
CONTENTS
Page No.
Introduction 3
Precious Teaching and Learning 4
Learning and Teaching Strategy 4
Assessment Strategy 5
The Key Roles for Law and PP1 6
Confidentiality 8
GSCC Code of Practice 9
Presentation of Portfolio 9
Portfolio Items 11
Items for the Admin Pack 15
Authenticity Statement 16
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INTRODUCTION
The Portfolio forms part of the total marks for the Law and Professional
Practice 1 Module.
The academic element of the module is assessed through the completion of a
portfolio. Students will be required to demonstrate that they have adhered to
the General Social Care Council Code of Practice (GSCC) as it applies to
their practice learning opportunity.
This document should be read in conjunction with the Law and Professional
Practice 1 Module Administration Pack. The Administration Pack provides
information on matters such as placement dates, Direct Observations of
Practice, National Occupational Standards, Evidence of Work Undertaken,
Learning Agreements, Interim Review, supervision, service user carer
feedback forms, practice assessor report.
The Portfolio must contain 4000 words in total and must be evidenced with
three practice examples of work undertaken e.g. contact sheet, letter, referral
form, care plan, assessment form, project work, reports etc. Your work must
be illustrated using literature therefore you must include a minimum of one
reference in each portfolio item. You must use the Harvard method of
referencing. Please refer to the faculty policy on confidentiality which is
available on the website www.health.bcu.ac.uk/dpl/socialwork.
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PREVIOUS TEACHING AND LEARNING
Prior to arriving on the practice placement 1, students will have had the
opportunity to engage with and complete the following taught modules at
Birmingham City University
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK - 30 credits at level 4
On this first module students get a brief overview of social work, the value
base, working with service users/carers, professional issues regarding roles,
responsibilities, confidentiality, health and safety, regulation, accountability
and inter-professional practice.
THEORIES AND VALUES - 30 credits at level 4
This covers themes around all aspects of discrimination and oppression,
empowerment and equality. Developing an understanding of values and
theories associated with social work practice.
SKILLS FOR SOCIALWORK - 30 credits at level 4
The student on this module becomes familiar with the skills needed to
undertake social work practice ranging from communicating and engaging to
Empowering and advocating. This module provided a toolkit and guide for
practice.
LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGY
LAW AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE 1 - 30 credits at level 4
The academic component of this module is taught at university and practice
learning takes place in social work / care settings. Students are taught basic
concepts in relation to social work policy and law in the areas of children and
young people, adults, mental health, disability, older adults, discrimination and
human rights. There is also input on placement preparation/expectations and
an opportunity to discuss the consolidation of their learning to date from other
modules. The assessment of practice (35 days) takes place in the placement
setting and the academic assessment via a portfolio that is completed by the
student during the placement.
During the 35 day placement students continue their learning in a practice
setting, and most importantly, are assessed for their practice abilities and
communication skills, through a variety of work with service users, their
families and their communities, within the remit of the agency. The principle
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strategy for teaching and learning on the placement will be via work with
services users, case discussion based on recognising theory and its
application to practice during supervision sessions as directed by their
learning agreement. As well as maintaining Agency recording systems and
learning from observational visits to other related agencies and
establishments.
ASSESSMENT STRATEGY
The module is assessed in two parts. Both parts need to be passed in order
for the student to pass the module as a whole.
Part 1: (Summative Assessment) is an academically marked assessment
which focuses on portfolio items one to four (4000 words), this excludes
work written on placement and given as evidence. This element is
assessed by the students tutor or a member of academic staff using academic
level 4 criteria. The summative assessment comprises of the following items:
1. Portfolio Item 1 – Organisational context, policy and procedure.
2. Portfolio Item 2 – Direct Practice
3. Portfolio Item 3 – Communication and Support
4. Portfolio Item 4 – Professional Development
The Portfolio is an academic piece of work which should be clearly linked to
practice. The Practice Assessor/Placement Supervisor (if applicable) will
support the student in identifying appropriate pieces of work to use as
evidence for the Portfolio items. The Portfolio will be assessed and graded in
accordance with the Standard University Assessment Regulations.
Unless the student has reasonable adjustments agreed, any portfolio
which is handed in after the last day of placement will be automatically
capped at 40% or failed at the first attempt if over 5 days late.
Part 2: A Practice Based Assessment:
This is an assessment of the student’s use of social work knowledge, skills,
and values. The assessment is undertaken by the Practice Assessor/
Placement Supervisor. The student will also be assessed on their fitness to
practice and suitability for further training. The Practice Assessor will assess
whether the student has achieved sufficient understanding within the agency
setting and skills in practice using the following criteria:
Assessment of the student’s ability to:
a) Communicate effectively, verbally, non-verbally and in writing.
b) Facilitate communication with service users, family members,
carers and professional colleagues.
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c) Practice in an anti-discriminatory manner.
d) Work within a team setting (including use of supervision).
e) Manage their workload.
f) Maintain confidentiality.
g) Adhere to the GSCC Code of Practice.
h) Evaluate and reflect on their own practice and that of the placement
agency practice.
i) Plan for and carry out a Direct Observation of Practice.
The Assessor’s report should include an evaluation of the student's particular
areas of strength and those areas of practice which need further development
or attention.
In some circumstances students may pass the practice placement and fail the
academic part of the Portfolio. If the student fails the academic assessment
they will only be allowed one further attempt.
Students who are unsuccessful in the Practice Based Assessment or the
portfolio will be allowed only one further attempt at a placement or a portfolio,
if recommended by the Practice Sub-Programme Examination Board. Failure
to abide by the GSCC Code of Conduct may result in referral to the Faculty
Fitness for Practice Panel.
Students are required to gather essential evidence in the Administrative Pack
to support completion of the identified units of the National Occupational
Standards’. This element is assessed by the Practice Assessor who may be
assisted by the work based supervisor.
The assessment will be supported by evidence based on:
1 Direct observation of practice
Supervision records
Examples of work undertaken
Feedback from service users/ carers
Students to comment on service user / carers feedback
Practice Assessors/ placement supervisors report
THE KEY ROLES FOR LAW AND PP1
The purpose of the Portfolio is to allow students to demonstrate their
understanding, application of law, social policy and professional practice. All
sections in the portfolio are equally important and are developed in such a
way as to give students an opportunity to relate their knowledge, skills and
values to professional social work practice. Learning on placement 1 will
prepare students for the second placement.
Within this Portfolio you are expected to demonstrate practice that meets the
following National Occupational Standards Key Roles:
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Portfolio item 1: Key Roles 4.2, 18.1, 19.3,
4.2 Identify the need for legal and procedural intervention
18.1 Review and update your own knowledge of legal, policy, procedural
frameworks
19.3 Work within the principles and values underpinning social work
practice.
Portfolio item 2: Key Roles 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 13.1
1.1 Review case notes and other relevant literature.
1.2 Liaise with others to access additional information that can inform initial
contact and involvement.
2.1 Inform individuals, families, carers, groups and communities about your
own, and the organisations duties and responsibilities.
2.2 Works with individuals, families, carers, groups and communities to
identify, gather, analyse and understand information.
3.1 Assess and review the preferred options of individuals, families, carers,
groups and communities.
13.1 Assess potential risk to self and colleagues.
Portfolio item 3: Key Roles 5.1, 7.1, 10.3, 17.1
5.1 Develop and maintain relationships with individuals, families, carers,
groups, communities and others.
7.1 Examine with individuals, families, carers, groups, communities and
others, support networks which can be accessed and developed.
10.3 Advocate for and with individuals, families, carers, groups and
communities.
17.1 Develop and maintain effective working relationships.
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Portfolio item 4: Key Roles 5.5, 16.1, 19.5 21.3
5.5 Reduce contact and withdraw from relationships effectively.
16.1 Maintain accurate, complete, accessible, and up to date records and
reports.
19.5 Use supervision and support to take action to meet continuing
professional development needs.
21.3 Work with colleagues to contribute to team development.
CONFIDENTIALITY
In the course of this practice learning opportunity, the student will gather
potentially sensitive information, and it is essential therefore that all identifying
features of service users and carers, including names, addresses and dates
of birth and the names of agencies and other professionals involved are
anonymised.
If a service user’s/carers/patient’s/client’s name or that of a member of staff is
included in any part of your portfolio, you will fail. The work will be deemed a
‘technical fail’. Success in the resubmitted work will be subject to capping, as
for any resubmission. See the full policy in your student handbook for further
guidance. It is your responsibility to ensure that your portfolio is kept secure
and confidentiality is maintained from 3rd parties at all times prior to the
submission for marking.
Students must sign the following statement which appears on Page of
their Portfolio. "I certify that this is my own work and confidentiality has
been maintained by the use of pseudonyms"
Failure to anonymise will result in TECHNICAL FAIL for the Portfolio.
Maintaining Confidentiality (Examples)
Name(s) of Service Users and/or Carers
Use pseudonyms, fictitious names for service users, e.g. Mr X, Y or Z. or
service user/carer 1, 2 or 3. Please write a statement at the beginning of your
portfolio to explain how you plan to maintain confidentiality. Once you allocate
a name to a particular service user/carer keep this name throughout to enable
the portfolio reader to accurately follow your portfolio.
Names of Other Professionals
When referring to another worker use their title, e.g. Doctor, Team Manager,
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Teacher, Consultant, Social Worker, Approved Mental Health Professional,
Physiotherapist, Home Care Organiser, Care Broker, Health Visitor, District
Nurse, Housing Officer, Police Officer etc.
Names of Agencies
When referring to an agency use for example, adults and communities team,
children young people and families team, day centre, residential child care
unit, nursing home for older adults, advocacy agency, GP surgery, primary
school, police station, housing department, hospital etc.
Geographical Area
When referring to a local authority or geographical use the term ‘local
authority’, ‘borough’ or ‘city’. When referring to an area within the borough or
city, use the term ‘locality’ or ‘town’.
Please refer to the faculty policy on confidentiality, which is available on
the website www.health.bcu.ac.uk/dpl/socialwork.
Anti Oppressive and Anti Discriminatory Practice
Evidence of knowledge, understanding and application of anti-oppressive and
anti discriminatory practice in respect of your practice and social work skills
must be included in your discussions throughout the Portfolio.
GSCC CODE OF PRACTICE
Students are required to demonstrate their understanding of the General
Social Care Council Code of Practice for Social Care Workers within the
context of the practice setting. The Code of Practice must be integrated into
all sections of the portfolio. Students are expected to make reference to
appropriate sections of the GSCC Code of Practice in their Portfolio.
PRESENTING THE COMPLETED PORTFOLIO
Read and sign the student statement on page to verify your work
Bind the portfolio guidance and your completed portfolio items together
as one complete document
Starting from page onwards number your pages chronologically
Present the portfolio items in order from item1 to item 4
Follow the sub-headings in the portfolio guidance
Answer all of the questions
Indicate your word count at the end of each item and at the end of the
complete portfolio
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Include references to reading throughout the portfolio using the
Harvard system of referencing. References can include books, class
handouts, journals and internet sites. Internet references should not
exceed 25% of the total references used and must not include
Wikipedia.
Failure to identify sources that you have cited is plagiarism, a serious
academic offence. If plagiarism is suspected you will be referred for
investigation and subject to disciplinary process under the BCU
Student Disciplinary Policy.
Include one complete list of references in alphabetical order (Harvard
Style) at the end of the portfolio.
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PORTFOLIO ITEMS
PORTFOLIO ITEM 1
National Occupational Standards identified;
4.2, 18.1, 19.3
Describe the context of the practice setting and the service user group who
use it. Is it a voluntary or statutory organisation?
How is it funded and who works there?
How has the work of the organisation enhanced your understanding of social
work?
Describe any legislation that is relevant to the work of the organisation.
What are the main policies and procedures relevant to your practice setting?
Reflect on the main values and principles that the organisation adheres to
1000 word limit
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PORTFOLIO ITEM 2
National Occupational Standards Units identified;
1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.2, 3 .1, 13.1
Describe a situation in which you have worked directly with individuals, carers,
groups or communities to identify their needs or circumstances. Provide some
information on the identity of the service user in terms of age, ethnicity
gender, disability, religion etc.
What information did you have to gather and who were the other
professionals you liaised with
Highlight any areas of discrimination and the impact this may have had on the
service user.
Reflect on your own practice and role and any potential risks that may have
been involved to the service user, carer, staff or other
1000 word limit
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PORTFOLIO ITEM 3
National occupational standards units identified;
5.1, 7.1, 10.3, 17.1
Briefly outline a case in which you have worked directly with a service user
and advocated on their behalf
How did you support the individual and their carers/families?
How were their needs and views represented?
What communication skills did you use and how did you develop and maintain
an effective relationship with them?
1000 word limit
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PORTFOLIO ITEM 4
National occupational standards units identified;
5.5, 14.1, 16.1, 21.3
How did you use supervision whilst on placement?
What were the main learning points for you?
How did you manage and prioritise your workload.
What was the importance of maintaining accurate records? Give an example
from practice.
Reflect on your overall contribution to the team, agency/organisation.
1000 word limit
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ITEMS FOR THE ADMIN PACK ONLY
All of the items listed below should be included in the administration pack and
not the portfolio
Direct Observation of Practice
During the course of the placement one direct observation of the
student’s practice must take place.
Supervision
The practice assessor/student should share the minute taking of
supervision sessions and may use these as evidence.
All minutes of supervision should be fully anonymised
Work Records
During the course of the PLO the student will carry out work on behalf of
the agency where they are based. These items of written work from the
practice setting can be submitted to the practice assessor/supervisor to
demonstrate evidence of meeting NOS.
All work records should be fully anonymised
Service user and/or carer feedback
The practice assessor/observer should complete this using the pro-forma
in the administration pack.
Feedback from Service Users and/or Carers (100 - 200 words)
National Occupational Standards for Social Work (Statement of
Evidence)
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AUTHENTICITY STATEMENT
Student Statement
"I certify that this is my own work and confidentiality has been maintained by
the use of pseudonyms"
Student Signature: …………………………………………..
Practice Assessor Statement
This is located in the admin pack and needs to be signed by the practice
assessor and the student.
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