Introduction to Social Work

Introduction to Social Work

Week 2 Overview

  • Focus on the roles of social workers and an introduction to social work.

Today's Plan

  • Small Group Activity: Discuss initial thoughts on social work.

  • Chapter 1 Review: Recap and reflect on the content of Chapter 1.

  • Discussion Activity: Post on the discussion board about creating culturally safe spaces.

  • Next Steps: Outline the upcoming topics and activities.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, J. (2017). Social Work in Canada: An Introduction (4th Ed.). Thompson Educational Publishing Inc.

Check-in

  • Participants share highlights from their first week in the Social Work Diploma Program.

Small Group Activity: Discussion Points

  • Split into groups and discuss:

    • What is social work?

    • What do we do?

    • Where do we work?

    • New insights gained from the readings.

Reference

  • Again referencing Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017's text.

IFSW Definition of Social Work

  • International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) developed a new definition in 2014 after extensive consultation:

    • “Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility, and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and Indigenous knowledge, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance well-being.”

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Next Small Group Activity

  • Focus Areas: Discuss the following concepts:

    • Creating Culturally Safe Spaces

    • Personhood

    • Decolonization

    • Self-care

  • Define each concept in groups for 20 minutes.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Focusing Question

  • Key Inquiry: “In what ways are social workers a part of Canadians’ lives today?”

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Understanding the Welfare State

  • Definition: The welfare state is a system where the state protects the health and well-being of its citizens, especially those in financial need.

    • Often described as a “social safety net” that supports individuals and families in need.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Components of Social Welfare

  • Social Welfare Includes:

    • Social Services: Non-monetary personal or community services provided by the state and non-profit organizations (e.g., daycare, housing, crisis intervention).

    • Income Security: Financial support in the form of social insurance, social assistance, and income supplementation, with conditions on income or needs testing, potentially through the tax system.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Context of Social Work within the Welfare State

  • Provision of Welfare Services:

    • Public Welfare: Services provided by various government levels (federal, provincial/territorial, municipal).

    • Private Welfare: Funded by private organizations and charities, which may be either non-profit or for-profit entities.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Examples of Public Welfare Programs

  • Provincial Welfare Services: E.g., Sites like Alberta’s Community and Social Services website.

  • Federal Social Benefits: Sites like Canada’s benefits information page.

  • Municipal Programs: Information from local authorities (e.g., Calgary Social Services).

References

  • Provided links to specific governmental sites for students to explore.

Delivery Systems in Social Welfare

  • Residual and Institutional Views of Welfare:

    • Residual View: Welfare as a limited response targeting the most needy, with a preference for family and social connections over government intervention.

    • Institutional View: Welfare as a means to ensure civic solidarity and promote equity, recognizing that not all individuals can meet their needs independently.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Universal vs. Selective Programs

  • Universal Programs: Available to all in specified categories as a right of citizenship.

  • Selective Programs: Targeted at those in need, often based on income or needs tests.

    • While universal aspects exist, no income security programs are strictly defined as universal today.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Roles of Social Workers

  • Distinction Between:

    • Direct Social Work: Involves face-to-face services, such as counselling and community development.

    • Indirect Social Work: Involves policy formulation and program evaluation within organizations.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Education and Employment of Social Workers

  • Career Opportunities:

    • Health and social services (e.g., child welfare, hospitals).

    • Government services (e.g., corrections, policy administration).

    • Community development (e.g., community health centers).

    • Research and consultation.

    • Self-employment options in the field.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Professional Standards

  • ACSW/CASW Overview:

    • Licensing bodies of social workers in Canada outline standards and ethics frameworks that guide practice.

Ethical Responsibilities in Social Work

The CASW Code of Ethics (2005)

  • Ethical behavior is foundational for social work, with potential for dilemmas arising from conflicting values.

  • Key values include:

    • Respect for Dignity

    • Pursuit of Social Justice

    • Service to Humanity

    • Integrity of Professional Practice

    • Confidentiality

    • Competence in Practice

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Anti-Oppressive Practice in Social Work

  • Focus on Human Rights and Social Justice: Social justice and human rights serve as foundational principles, promoting an anti-oppressive framework.

    • Recognition of systemic oppression (e.g., racism, sexism) and advocacy for change.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Linking Personhood to Social Work Practice

  • Personhood: Vital for Indigenous social work practices, emphasizing relationships and interconnectedness.

  • Discuss concepts such as Wahkohtowin (Cree word for relationality) and Wataskawin.

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Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.

Conclusion: Decolonization in Social Work

  • Importance of decolonizing practices and frameworks in social work to enhance social justice and equity.

  • Suggested reading: A Beginner's Guide to Decolonization by Kevin Lamoureux.

Reference

  • Hicks, S., & Stokes, 2017.