Who We Are?

The Irish Association of Social Workers is the national professional body for social workers in the Republic of Ireland. It was founded in 1971 and has a membership of more than 1,800 social workers. The IASW is an active member of the International Federation of Social Workers, which represents professional social work associations from over 55 different countries with more than 350,000 social workers in all parts of the world.

The Association operates by means of an elected Board of Directors which includes; the Chair of the Board, Vice-Chair, Company Secretary and Treasurer. The SIG Network is made up of the Special Interest Groups (SIG’s) and is the advisory body to the Board. Many components of the IASW, from the Special Interest Groups to the Chair of the Board, operate on the time given by members. It is up to the members of the Association to participate in order to make it effective. 

We provide a range of relevant, needs-based member benefits and services. Come and join us! 

Through our staff, our members and our strategic relationships we grow our community, where members belong as individuals and as a collective, advancing the profession through excellence in standards and practice. Our resourcefulness and commitment drive us to go the extra mile.

We exist, as the representative body, to advance the interests of our members, the profession and service users, working together for improved lives, social justice and equality for all.

Our Vision 

Our Vision is for the IASW to be the strong, ethical, and independent voice of social work and social workers in Ireland. We strive to ensure that the full potential and positive impact of social work is delivered, helping to create a better society, through the promotion of excellence in practice, social justice, and human rights. 

Our Mission 

Our mission, as the representative body of social work in Ireland, is to advance the interests of our members, the profession and service users; working with our members and partner bodies for enhanced wellbeing, human rights, social justice, and equality for all. 

The Objectives of the Association are:

1. Continuous Professional development: In consultation with the IASW Special Interest Groups and wider membership respond to members and stakeholder needs in the delivery of our CPD programme.
2. Membership and Governance: Continue to develop and increase membership numbers, including specific focus on student and early career social workers.
3. Representing Social Work: Strengthen the IASW position as the recognised and ethical voice of social work in Ireland, including showcasing the work of members and ensuring the association supports social workers and promotes social work.
4. Communication and Policy: As the professional representative body for Social Workers, to ensure the sustainable development of the IASW and develop a comprehensive communications and public affairs strategy. The IASW will actively work to influence government policies that directly affect Social Work in Ireland and Internationally.

You can download or view our 2025 - 2027 Strategic Plan here