ISWS | About Josephine Schofield

Josephine Schofield is a sector leader, trainer and influencer specialising in trauma‑informed, anti‑discriminatory practice with separated children and young people seeking asylum.

She leads the national rollout of the Social Work Age Estimation Framework (SAEF), helping local authorities embed consistent, ethical practice through high‑quality training, clear guidance and strengthened social work practice.

Josephine chairs the BASW UASC Special Interest Group, directs ISWS, and has authored national guidance, developed qualifications and shaped sector standards that protect both young people and the practitioners who support them.

Known for her collaborative, warm style, Josephine brings clarity to complex legal and practice landscapes, translating judgments, policy and research into accessible, scenario‑based tools that build confidence on the frontline.

She is passionate about empowering practitioners, championing culturally sensitive, rights‑based approaches and creating resources that make high‑quality practice feel achievable in real‑world settings

Josephine is so passionate about the topic, making you want to learn more. She has a way of catching your attention and keeping you engaged. I haven’t had training this good for a long time.

SOCIAL WORKER, ENGLAND

Jo is rightly regarded as a leading expert in the field of children’s social care and age assessments specifically. Throughout my work, and discussions with other lawyers, she is consistently regarded as the go-to for complex legal claims as well as an expert in the fields of policy and social work practice. She is highly regarded for her broad field of knowledge and detailed and meticulous approach, alongside her drive for collaborative working to achieve best practice.

BARRISTER

I would describe Josephine’s social work practice as exemplary. She is deeply committed to ensuring the best interests of the young people with whom she works, demonstrating a trauma informed approach to her interventions. Josephine has a strong knowledge of the impact of trauma and she brings this understanding into her work, not only through direct practice but also in the way in which she advocates and promotes an approach that reduces the impact of harm. I have seen Josephine respond in uncertain situations, and her experience and knowledge has provided her with a sense of confidence allowing her to manage complex situations. Josephine is able to maintain a professional, warm, and diplomatic attitude when faced with challenges, and this approach has led to developing strong and enduring relationships, with people seeing Josephine as someone who they can approach in times of need.

INDEPENDENT SOCIAL WORKER JOINTLY INSTRUCTED ON A CASE

Jo has so much knowledge and the volume of information about Triple Planning is huge but I think by the end of the day I had a lot more ideas of how to focus my plans more specifically to the young person and prepare them for all eventualities from the beginning rather than respond as the process is happening. Understanding that it is just about being aware of where to go or who to ask rather than having all the answers makes it feel less overwhelming. I know the resources and slides we were given will be used over and over again. I think this is essential training for anyone working with separated young people and only wish the circumstances of our immigration system were kinder.

PERSONAL ADVISOR

This was excellent training, I feel more informed and definitely more confident about the processes and triple planning. Jo facilitated the training brilliantly and kept interest throughout, allowing for discussion and questions and sharing her expertise. I would definitely recommend this training to others, I know this will make a difference in our practice and my management. Thank you.

INDEPENDENT REVIEWING OFFICER