What is social work?
When defining the term social work, The South African Council for Social Service Professions uses the following global definition, “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’s, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing.”
In laymen’s terms social work is a profession which focusses on helping individuals, groups and communities to improve their wellbeing. Social workers often interact with the most vulnerable members of society, working hard to improve their lives and ultimately their futures. Depending on a person’s area of interest and experience the role of a social worker and the field in which they focus can vary greatly from one position to another. Generally, however, social workers practise in one of the following areas:
- Child and family welfare
- Marriage and divorce counselling
- Care of the elderly
- Medical social work
- Psychiatric social work – Masters degree only
- Social work with the mentally or physically disabled
- Addictions focussed
- Criminal offenders
- Social work in the workplace or school