This study is based upon a piece of qualitative research examining the traditional, formal supervision of social workers by team managers with regard to child protection work in Local Authority social services departments. It explores the supervisory process in practice and its value in terms of ensuring and facilitating effective and efficient practice in the child protection field. It illustrates that supervision is predominantly a managerially-orientated activity, rather than the required worker-centred activity through which the professional and personal needs of social workers can be met and practice quality maintained. The reasons for a manageial emphasis are explored, concluding that, within the present organizational structure and management philosophies of social services departments, this model of supervision is inadequate. Local authorities need to seriously consider the professional and personal needs of workers, otherwise confident practice cannot be expected.