Alistair Findlay’s latest compilation of poems about social work shows the reader the world many are still living in, a world often shaped by poverty. Not much has been written about the stories that fill the working lives of social workers, and Findlay offers sad, sometimes absurd, insights. He creates poems for everyone who wants to know what is usually hidden behind closed doors.

With rage, passion and occasional dark satire, this volume of over 60 poems describes the life of a social worker with the clear understanding of the insider.

Interview with Alistair Findlay

1. What does a social worker need to be?

A person who is emotionally resilient and prepared to persevere with people who haven't necessarily asked for help. They must have a human ability, or skill, to engage and confront people and be able to empathise with people. Most importantly: a social worker is "somebody who doesn't burst into tears".

2. How or why did you get into social care?

It was a relatively new profession when I was beginning to look into it. I met 'Heather the Weather's' grandfather in 1970 who drew my attention towards social care, his exact words were; 'you should apply for social work, it needs people like you, it's full of judges' daughters.'

3. What are the main messages, or information, you want to give?

I think there is a lack of public knowledge of what social workers do, or what social care is, so I want to draw more attention to that. I also consider issues with the government, media and social care. I think there is too much responsibility put on social workers for problems in society, which isn't right. I am writing on behalf of front line social workers. Ordinary socical workers need to be given a choice.

4. Does the use of poetry add anything to your message?

Over the years I wrote the occasional poem, so I knew that eventually I wanted to write something like Dancing with Big Eunice using poetry. It is diffcult though, because of the closeness of the material and the emotions attached.

5. What sort of effect do you think the humour in the poems has?

I think that humour is part of the job, so it had to be incorporated. There are many tragic cases, so the humour is black humour. Social work is done in a team, and the camaraderie you experience is really important, and humour is one way in which people can bond.

6. Do you have a favourite poem in Dancing with Big Eunice?

I'd say They Sit Waiting because it takes me back to the start with the local children and the tragedy of children being in care.

7. What sort of responses have you had to Dancing with Big Eunice?

I have been asked to read poems to practitioners - young enthusiastic social workers - which is a really good thing. There is a vocational element with social work, and its important to protect it. I have also been asked to talk at social work lectures.