Managing evidence and cultural adaptation in the international transfer of innovative social work models

Abstract

As the Global Agenda for Social Work continues to be promoted and moves forward, so does the desire to use innovation in the development, evolution and improvement of practice internationally. Using examples from practice, the article identifies two key challenges associated with transferring innovative social work models between countries, namely demonstrating effectiveness in an evidence-based context and managing cultural adaptation. It draws upon the diffusion of innovation literature applied by different disciplines and recommends practical steps that researchers and practitioners can take to support the transfer of models of practice between countries.