Leading organizational change across dual legislative frameworks: Integrating approved social work and acute deprivation of liberty services in Northern Ireland

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ID: 332894
2026
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Ranked #24 of 34 articles by views in The British Journal of Social Work

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Abstract
Abstract This article examines a statutory social work service development project within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust during the phased implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, while the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 remained in force. Rather than offering a doctrinal analysis of the legislation itself, the article presents a reflective organizational case study of the amalgamation of the Approved Social Work and Acute Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards teams during a period of significant workforce and system pressure. The project unfolded against a backdrop of industrial action, delayed psychiatric admissions, and increasing complexity of statutory practice. The article explores how organizational urgency was established, how professional coalitions were developed, and how leadership sought to embed dual-framework competence within frontline statutory services. The article critically reflects on tensions relating to professional identity, resistance, and the challenges of implementing linear change models in dynamic systems.
Reference Key
openalex_W7222937681 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Steph Kerr, Danielle McIlroy, Gavin Davidson
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Journal The British Journal of Social Work
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/bjsw/bcag264
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcag264
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