Takudzwa Mathende
Takudzwa Mathende is a highly experienced and dedicated social work professional with extensive local and international experience. He earned a Bachelor of Social Work Honour Degree in 2008 and an MA in Social Impact
Takudzwa has mainly worked in statutory child protection and disability services. He has worked as a Social Worker, Practice Educator, Practice Consultant and Short Breaks Manager within a Children’s Disability Service, where he managed complex cases, supported social workers, and supervised short breaks workers to ensure high-quality services for children and families. Through these roles, Takudzwa has demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life for children with disabilities and their families by providing essential support and respite services.
Beyond his practice, Takudzwa is an accomplished academic and researcher. He has authored and co authored over 20 peer reviewed book chapters, journal and opinion articles.
As a leader and mentor, Takudzwa also plays an active role in professional networks, including serving on the International Committee of the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) and Africa Social Work Network. He is a students’ mentor (Muumbi) for Africa Social Work Network with focus on international social work. His collaborative approach, strategic vision, and dedication to empowering vulnerable communities make him a vital asset to the social work profession and the organizations he serves.
Key Areas of Expertise
- Statutory Child Protection, with high specialism in Safeguarding Children with Disabilities.
- Education and Health Care Plan Social Care Input (advice and Support to carers and parents).
- Implementation of Disability Services and Targeted and Commissioned and Specialist Short Breaks Management in accordance with the legislative and policy framework.
- Mental Capacity Assessment and Preparing for Adulthood/Transition support, including Court of Protection work for e example; Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, Best Interests and Deputyship.
- Research and Academic Contributions to Social Work Practice including Policy Analysis and Development in the Global South, Social Impact Assessment and Corporate Social Responsibility.