Australian Association of Social Workers Nth Qld Branch
Guidelines for Ethics in the Pub
For use by AASWNQld members as a guide for holding discussions about ethical issues
"Ethics in the Pub Guidelines" - checklist
Planning aspects / DoneDecide on the discussion process to be followed;
a) Set up a panel of social workers and ask them to prepare in advance, and present their thoughts to the group. This is followed by general discussion and Q&A processes.
b) Informal "round-table" discussion.
Find a facilitator whose role is:
a) To make sure attendees are aware of the topic or question being discussed
b) To keep the discussion on track
c) To ensure time-lines are adhered to
d) To ensure the chosen process is followed
To choose a topic or question to explore;
a) Visit or
b) Contact Branch Ethics Group Convenor.
Decide whether a record of the conversation might be useful for attendees and/or absent colleagues. Decide on recording method that will ensure privacy and confidentiality. Gather necessary resources.
Design a brief and direct evaluation process;
a) Assess the suitability of the venue
b) Assess suitability of the planning strategies used
c) Evaluate the discussion process used
d) Identify any areas of improvement for next meeting
Organisational aspects
Send invitations out; include a copy of the topic or question.
Choose a venue with the following characteristics:
a) Serves food and drinks
b) Has sufficient space for seating where people can see and hear each other; and
c) Can ensure privacy and confidentiality of matters raised and shared.
Group meeting aspects
At the session:
a) Ask attendees to fill in an attendance record so that the meeting record can be distributed, and to support their CPD Logs.
b) Make sure there are several copies of the Code of Ethics available for reference at the session.
c) Consider providing hand-out's of the AASW Ethical Guidelines relevant to the discussion topic.
d) Gather feedback and evaluation of the session.
e) Set a date and time for the next session.
f) Laugh and learn
Evaluation aspects
Discussing ethical dilemmas can open our minds, create opportunities for learning, and give rise to raising awareness. BEWARE the benefits of starting a discussion group!
For feedback and support please contact the Branch Ethics Group convenor Eunice Donovan e:
Ratified by AASWNQld BMC 19th August 2013-08-21Enquiries to AASWNQld Office 0428 489 683