In this episode of So What: Social Work, Abigail and Josh are joined by their very first special guest, Hannah, an experienced social worker with over eight years in practice.

Together, they lift the lid on the Mental Capacity Act 2005, exploring what mental capacity is, when formal assessments may be required, and how practitioners apply the legislation in day-to-day social work across England and Wales. They discuss the five statutory principles, the functional test of capacity, decision-specific assessments, and the importance of professional curiosity, evidence gathering and reflective practice. Hannah also shares practical insights, memorable “TM” (trademark!) one-liners and learning from practice.

The episode also explores Hannah’s journey into social work, the experiences that have strengthened her resilience, and the different routes into qualifying as a social worker in the UK.

Hannah shares one of her favourite memory aids for the functional test of capacity:

“Uncle Ron Wears a Cap”

•⁠ ⁠Uncle – Understand

•⁠ ⁠Ron – Retain

•⁠ ⁠Wears – Use and Weigh

•⁠ ⁠A Cap – Communicate

A simple way to remember the four elements of the functional test when assessing mental capacity.

Would you like Hannah to return for future episodes? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment, send us a message or email us at sowhatsocialwork@gmail.com.

A huge thank you to Hannah for sharing her knowledge, passion and humour. You were brilliant!

Key terms discussed

•⁠ ⁠Non-statutory services

•⁠ ⁠Third sector

•⁠ ⁠Positive discrimination

•⁠ ⁠Mental capacity

•⁠ ⁠Advocacy

•⁠ ⁠Collateral information

•⁠ ⁠Causative nexus

References and further reading

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales – Mental Capacity Act & DoLS: https://socialcare.wales/resources-guidance/social-care-workers/mental-capacity-act-dols

•⁠ ⁠GOV.UK – Mental Capacity Act 2005 guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-and-social-care-workers-mental-capacity-act-decisions

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales – Working with advocacy: https://socialcare.wales/resources-guidance/social-care-workers/working-with-advocacy

•⁠ ⁠Welsh Government – Third Sector Scheme: https://www.gov.wales/third-sector-scheme

•⁠ ⁠39 Essex Chambers – Assessment & Recording of Capacity: https://www.39essex.com/our-thinking/newsletters/mental-capacity-guidance-note-assessment-and-recording-capacity/

•⁠ ⁠39 Essex Chambers – Relevant Information for Different Categories of Decision: https://www.39essex.com/our-thinking/newsletters/mental-capacity-guidance-note-relevant-information-different-categories/

Definitions

•⁠ ⁠Non-statutory services – Services provided voluntarily or outside statutory duties.

•⁠ ⁠Third sector – Charities, voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises.

•⁠ ⁠Positive discrimination – Usually unlawful in UK law; positive action may be lawful under the Equality Act 2010.

•⁠ ⁠Mental capacity – Ability to make a specific decision at the time it is required.

•⁠ ⁠Advocacy – Independent support to help people understand rights and express views.

•⁠ ⁠Collateral information – Relevant information gathered from records, professionals and family.

•⁠ ⁠Causative nexus – The link between impaired decision-making and an impairment or disturbance of the mind or brain under the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

In this milestone 10th episode of So What: Social Work, our hosts take a moment to reflect on the journey so far. They discuss why the podcast was created, what they hope it has achieved during the first ten episodes, and their vision for the future as they continue lifting the lid on the realities of social work practice.

The conversation then turns to an interesting topic inspired by content shared by The Adult Social Care Mentor on TikTok: should social care professionals wear uniforms? The hosts explore the potential benefits and challenges of uniforms in social care, considering professional identity, public perception, relationship-based practice, stigma, and the impact that clothing can have on the experiences of people who draw on care and support.

As always, the discussion encourages reflection rather than providing definitive answers, inviting listeners to consider how seemingly simple aspects of practice can influence relationships and outcomes.

The episode includes heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported So What: Social Work throughout its first ten episodes - our subscribers, followers, listeners and viewers, everyone who has shared feedback or asked questions, West Wales Systems for providing office space, and of course, our producer, Tom, whose work behind the scenes helps bring every episode to life.

We’d love to hear your thoughts. Should social care professionals wear uniforms? Let us know by commenting on the video, sending us a direct message, or emailing sowhatsocialwork@gmail.com. We’d also love to hear your feedback on the first ten episodes and your ideas for future topics.

Key term discussed

Stigmatising (Stigma) – Stigma refers to negative attitudes, stereotypes or discrimination directed towards individuals or groups because of a particular characteristic, circumstance or identity. Within health and social care, stigma can affect how people experience services, engage with professionals and feel about seeking support. Reflecting on how language, appearance and professional practice can unintentionally reinforce stigma is an important aspect of person-centred, rights-based care.

References

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales. (2026). Code of Professional Practice for Social Care. The professional standards expected of everyone working in social care in Wales, including promoting dignity, respect, rights and person-centred practice.

https://socialcare.wales

•⁠ ⁠Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014. Welsh legislation underpinning person-centred, strengths-based approaches to care and support.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/anaw/2014/4/contents

•⁠ ⁠NHS Wales. More Than Just Words: Welsh Language in Health and Social Care. Guidance promoting person-centred care, dignity and respectful communication within Welsh health and social care services.

https://www.gov.wales/more-just-words

•⁠ ⁠Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. A foundational text exploring how stigma influences identity, relationships and social interactions.

In this episode of So What: Social Work, our hosts lift the lid on the Johari Window – a model developed by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham (1955) to improve self-awareness, communication and interpersonal relationships.

Together, they explore the Johari Window’s four areas:

•⁠ ⁠Open Area – known to ourselves and others.

•⁠ ⁠Blind Area – recognised by others but not ourselves.

•⁠ ⁠Hidden Area – known to ourselves but not shared with others.

•⁠ ⁠Unknown Area – undiscovered strengths, qualities or experiences.

The hosts discuss how the model can support reflective practice, feedback, professional development and communication within social work. They also share their experiences of using the Johari Window with social work students and reflect on how it continues to shape their own practice. In fact, it was during a Johari Window session with students that someone first suggested the idea of starting this podcast!

Have you used the Johari Window in practice or learning? Has this episode inspired you to give it a try? We’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment, send us a message, or email sowhatsocialwork@gmail.com.

Content note: This episode has been marked as explicit due to occasional mild strong language during a light-hearted conversation. The explicit rating relates to isolated language only.

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Terms discussed

Johari Window

A self-awareness and communication model developed by Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham (1955).

Vanguard Method

An organisational improvement approach developed by Professor John Seddon that focuses on designing services around what matters to the people using them.

Stretch Model (Stretch Zone Model)

A model describing the Comfort, Stretch (Learning) and Panic Zones to support learning and development.

Emotional Intelligence

The ability to recognise, understand and manage emotions in ourselves and others, supporting effective communication and relationships.

Imposter Syndrome

Feelings of self-doubt or believing achievements are undeserved despite evidence of competence.

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References

•⁠ ⁠Luft, J. & Ingham, H. (1955). The Johari Window: A Graphic Model of Interpersonal Awareness.

•⁠ ⁠Vanguard Consulting. The Vanguard Method.

•⁠ ⁠Luckner, J.L. & Nadler, R.S. (1997). Processing the Experience: Strategies to Enhance and Generalize Learning.

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales. Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

•⁠ ⁠Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence.

•⁠ ⁠Clance, P.R. & Imes, S.A. (1978). The Impostor Phenomenon in High Achieving Women.

In this episode of So What: Social Work, our hosts lift the lid on secondary (vicarious) trauma - what it is, how it can affect social workers and other helping professionals, and why recognising its impact is essential for sustainable practice.

Together, they explore trauma-informed practice, reflecting on what it means to work in ways that promote safety, trust, collaboration and empowerment, while recognising the impact trauma can have on both the people we support and ourselves.

Drawing on their experiences in adult social care, the hosts respond to a thought-provoking question from experienced social worker Hannah, discussing how they manage the emotional impact of practice and navigate the everyday pressures of the profession. They reflect on the importance of psychological safety, supervision, reflective practice, journaling, healthy boundaries and taking proper breaks (yes, holidays really do matter!).

The conversation also touches on being members of the LGBTQI+ community and the value of allyship, peer support and creating safe spaces for colleagues.

If this episode raises anything for you, please remember support is available. Speak with your manager, supervisor, occupational health service or Human Resources department, and explore local counselling or employee assistance services where available.

You can also contact us by commenting on the episode, sending us a direct message, or emailing sowhatsocialwork@gmail.com.

Support services

Canopi (Wales) – Free, confidential mental health support for NHS and social care staff in Wales. Self-referral available.

https://canopi.nhs.wales

Samaritans (UK) – Free emotional support 24/7.

Tel: 116 123

Email: jo@samaritans.org

https://www.samaritans.org

NHS Wales 111 (Press 2) – Urgent mental health support in Wales. Call 111 and select Option 2 (where available).

Shout – Free confidential text support 24/7.

Text SHOUT to 85258.

Terms discussed

Trauma-informed practice – An approach that recognises the impact of trauma, seeks to prevent re-traumatisation and promotes safety, trust and empowerment.

Psychological safety – A culture where people feel safe to speak up, ask questions and learn without fear of blame.

Resilience – The ability to adapt to adversity, strengthened through supervision, reflection, healthy boundaries and organisational support.

Secondary (vicarious) trauma – The emotional impact of repeated exposure to others’ trauma. Over time, this may affect wellbeing, relationships and professional practice.

Social justice – A core social work value promoting fairness, equality, human rights and challenging discrimination.

Further reading

•⁠ ⁠Trauma-Informed Wales Framework: https://traumaframeworkcymru.com

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales – Trauma-informed approaches evidence summary: https://insightcollective.socialcare.wales/evidence-summaries/trauma-informed-approaches

•⁠ ⁠Social Care Wales – Code of Professional Practice for Social Care Workers (2026): https://socialcare.wales/codes-of-practice-and-guidance/code-of-professional-practice-for-social-care-workers

In this episode of So What: Social Work, Abigail and Josh are lifting the lid on the Code of Professional Practice for Social Care, exploring the updated Code that came into effect across Wales on 1 July 2026 - coincidentally the very same day the podcast launched!

The hosts unpack what has changed from the previous Code, discuss why the updates matter, and explain how the Code applies to everyone working in social care in Wales - not just registered social workers or social work students. Through practical discussion and real-world examples, they consider what the revised wording means for day-to-day practice, professionalism, accountability and ethical decision-making.

The episode also explores how social care professionals can challenge practice respectfully and professionally while remaining guided by the values and expectations set out in the Code. Abigail and Josh share practical tips for speaking up, influencing positive change and navigating difficult conversations with confidence and professionalism.

Whether you’re a student, newly qualified practitioner, experienced professional or work alongside social care services, this episode offers practical insights into the standards that underpin safe, compassionate and professional practice across Wales.

We’d love to hear from you, get in touch with your views about the updated Code via email at: sowhatsocialwork@gmail.com or leave a comment or send a DM via our social media accounts. Keep those rocks in the diary and we’ll continue lifting the lid of all things adult social care related!

Key terms discussed in this episode

Social justice

Social justice is the principle that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities and access to resources. In social work, it underpins efforts to reduce inequality, challenge discrimination, uphold human rights and promote inclusion for people experiencing disadvantage or marginalisation.

Source: National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Social Justice Priorities. https://www.socialworkers.org/Advocacy/Social-Justice/Social-Justice-Priorities

Medical Model of Disability

The Medical Model views disability as arising primarily from an individual’s impairment or health condition, with the focus on diagnosis, treatment or adaptation of the individual.

Social Model of Disability

The Social Model recognises that people are disabled by physical, organisational and attitudinal barriers within society, rather than by their impairment alone. The focus is therefore on removing barriers and creating inclusive environments.

Source: Welsh Government / Hwb. What is Disability? https://hwb.gov.wales/api/storage/57f210f2-19c2-4c3e-a6e1-a34e27bb4bfb/1%20What%20is%20disability%20English.pdf

Professional registration body

A professional registration body is an organisation responsible for regulating a profession and maintaining a register of individuals who meet the required standards of education, conduct and competence to practise safely. In Wales, Social Care Wales is the professional regulator for registered social workers and other regulated members of the social care workforce. It maintains the Register, sets standards for professional practice and education, and helps to protect the public by promoting high standards across the social care profession.

Source: Social Care Wales. Registration and Code of Professional Practice for Social Care. https://socialcare.wales/registration

In this episode, the hosts explore the theory and principles of strengths-based practice using clear, accessible language and avoiding unnecessary jargon. They discuss the shift from a deficit-focused model of social work towards an empowering, strengths-focused approach that recognises people’s abilities, resources, relationships, and potential.

The hosts also respond to a question from Ariana, a newly qualified social worker, who asks how practitioners can balance a strengths-based approach with the realities of professional power, statutory responsibilities, organisational pressures, and limited resources.

Key Terms Discussed

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a UK benefit that helps with the extra costs associated with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. Eligibility is based on how a person’s condition affects their daily living and mobility, rather than the condition itself. PIP is not means-tested, so income and savings do not affect eligibility.

Source: Carers UK. Personal Independence Payment (PIP). https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/financial-support/benefits-if-you-are-disabled-ill-or-injured/personal-independence-payment/

Person-Centred Care

Person-centred care is an approach that supports people to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. Care is coordinated and tailored to the individual, ensuring people are 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

Substance Misuse

Substance misuse refers to the harmful or dependent use of alcohol or drugs. Harmful use occurs when alcohol or drug use causes physical, psychological, or social harm or places the individual or others at risk. Dependence is characterised by a strong urge to use substances despite the negative impact on a person’s health, relationships, finances, or daily life.

Source: NSPCC. Alcohol, Drugs and Parenting. https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/talking-drugs-alcohol/alcohol-drugs-parenting/

Statutory Social Work

Statutory social work refers to social work carried out under legal duties and powers, primarily within local authorities. It includes safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of children, adults at risk, and communities, and involves making decisions that balance individual rights, risks, and legal responsibilities. Registered social workers are accountable for these statutory interventions.

Source: Scottish Government. The Role of the Registered Social Worker in Statutory Interventions: Guidance for Local Authorities. https://www.gov.scot/publications/role-registered-social-worker-statutory-interventions-guidance-local-authorities/pages/2/

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/

In this episode, our hosts explore the role of the Practice Educator, reflecting on their own experiences of supporting and assessing student social workers in practice. They discuss the responsibilities and expectations of the role, the rewards and challenges of practice education, and the impact that openness within learning environments can have on the development of future social workers.

To support listeners, some of the professional terms discussed during the episode are explained below.

Statutory Social Work

Statutory social work refers to social work undertaken within the legal duties and powers of local authorities. It includes safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children, adults at risk, and communities, and often involves making complex decisions that balance rights, risks, and needs. Responsibility and accountability for these statutory interventions rest with registered social workers.

Source: Scottish Government, The Role of the Registered Social Worker in Statutory Interventions. https://www.gov.scot/publications/role-registered-social-worker-statutory-interventions-guidance-local-authorities/pages/2/

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

Code of Professional Practice

In Wales, the Code of Professional Practice for Social Care sets out the standards of conduct and practice expected of everyone registered with Social Care Wales. The Code describes how social care workers should uphold the rights, wellbeing, voice, and choice of people who use care and support services, while acting with honesty, integrity, professionalism, and accountability. It provides the framework for ethical practice and professional decision-making across the social care workforce.

Source: Social Care Wales, Code of Professional Practice for Social Care.

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