Reflections on a Systematic Literature Review: Questioning the (In)visibility of Researcher Positionality

This critical commentary is developed from the author’s experience of conducting a systematic review and thematic synthesis of literature investigating social worker’s perceptions of bureaucracy in frontline practice. Reading widely contributes to the development of knowledge, evidence-based practice and research skills, yet the majority of literature consulted failed to address the influence of researcher positionality in research design, data collection, analysis or presentation. Questions of quality reporting in published literature are raised, identifying a stark contrast between research reporting practices and social work values. As social work practitioners, educators and students, we need to question why is positionality widely invisible in the publication of qualitative social work research, what is being prioritised in literature and does this align with the core values of the social work profession

Palmerston North Legal Entities Project: A feasibility study completed by Katheryn Margaret Pascoe as part of a 3rd year Bachelor of Social Work placement at the Palmerston North City Council.

The Legal Entities Project was completed as part of a 12 week Bachelor of Social Work 3rd year placement through the collaboration of Massey University and the Palmerston North City Council Community Services team. The project was focused on exploring what the legal needs of local Incorporated Societies and Charitable Trusts providing social services in Palmerston North are, to then recommend a service to meet the needs of the sector. [First paragraph of Executive Summary