Safety as a Fifth Dimension in Supervision: Stories from the frontline

Child and family practice has become increasingly complex, which was recognized as a field of social work. While it is growing, in relation to effective supervision, there has been little research about the components of effective supervision. This report explored practitioners’ and supervisors’ experiences of effective supervision in this field by interviewing experienced supervisors and supervisees. The findings confirmed that complexity and centrality of the supervisory relationship, with the experience of a safe supervisory relationship, were essential. The importance of contemporary knowledge, leadership skills and an enabling organizational and community context were also highlighted.