23/06/2026
Social workers are facing abuse not just on the job — but after hours online too.
A new UNISON report shows:
🔹 Verbal abuse is more common on solo visits
🔹 1 in 8 experience online harassment
🔹 Over a quarter feel unsafe on home visits
With solo visits increasing due to demand and staff shortages, many workers say they feel unsafe — and some are considering leaving the profession.
“Without changes to staffing levels and a shift in how the public views social work, risks to both staff wellbeing and the level of service they and local authorities can provide will continue to grow.”
Andrea Egan, UNISON GS
https://unsn.uk/4xIr8rx