Date: 25th November 2026
Time: 12noon - 1.30pm
This seminar is presented by Dr James Todd, Practice Researcher and Deputy Head of Service – Social Work Learning and Development, Southern Health and Social Care Trust (SHSCT).
This Lunchtime Seminar examines the intersection of adult protection practice and epistemic (in)justice, drawing on research into professional perceptions of social work with adult vulnerable witnesses. Participants will critically explore how knowledge, voice, and credibility are recognised — or overlooked — within safeguarding investigation processes and consider the implications for adults in need of protection.
The session will address how epistemic injustice manifests in practice, with particular reference to instances where individuals’ accounts are minimised, misunderstood, or discounted due to vulnerability, communication differences, or systemic bias. Bridging theory and practice, the seminar will provide a structured opportunity for practitioners to reflect on their professional roles in promoting or challenging these dynamics.
By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to define epistemic injustice within adult safeguarding contexts, identify relevant examples in practice and apply strategies to strengthen rights-based, ethically-informed approaches in adult protection work.
This session will be particularly valuable to: Social workers, social care practitioners and police officers with a professional interest in supporting adults in need of protection.
