International Conference on Social Work in Health and Mental Health

The 9th International Conference on Social Work in Health and Mental Health was opened yesterday by Professor Martin Webber, Director of the International Centre for Mental Health Social Research in the Department of Social Policy and Social Work. The conference brings over 550 people from over 40 countries to York to discuss research and innovative practice in social work in health settings.

Chief Social Worker for Adults, Lyn Romeo, welcomed delegates to the conference and introduced the Minister of State for Care, Caroline Dinenage who provided a welcome message.

Professor Webber said: "This is the first time this conference series has come to the UK and is an important opportunity for us to learn from colleagues around the world and to discuss our research. Social workers are involved in tackling the social determinants of health. Sharing best practice and the latest research evidence in the field can help us to be as effective as possible in this task."

Professor Deborah Smith, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Professor John Hudson, Head of Department of Social Policy and Social Work, also welcomed delegates to the conference, which continues until Friday.