Which speaks directly to core concern of those who have been critical of the centralised, government-controlled Frontline from the outset: that privileging a particular organisation and its models at the expense of all others risks this very outcome. The alternatives have faded because Frontline has had preferential treatment and funding.

The PCFSW network’s response is also revealing of its tendency to toe the government line (at least publicly) and once again demonstrates the degree to which local authorities have been captured by Frontline, a publicly-funded organisation backed and influenced by global big money. (See also recent statement from ADSC on this announcement: https://adcs.org.uk/workforce/article/comment-frontline-pathways-programme-funding)

Where is the evidence, beyond the ‘very good local feedback’ cited above that Pathways improved the lives of children and families?

It’s important we as social workers look beyond the rhetoric and think and talk critically about these things.