What makes a person socially responsible?
Is it a cultivated habit or an inborn flair?
It was a normal day until a discussion erupted on the difference between volunteers and social workers.
Years ago the term ‘social worker’ was used casually for anyone who showed dedication to the welfare of the society. It also meant that they did it out of their personal interest and often with their own resources for the welfare of others. It also meant that the spectrum could include environment or humanity.
Two renowned international personalities who brought the term to main front were Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa. They looked at social reformations and tried to elevate people from sufferings. They were not just volunteers because their work was massive with impacts that created ripples.
Today, however, it is a different situation. Social work is another profession that you could study as a major in a university. You can take it as a bachelor degree, Masters and even a doctorate. It is a discipline which guarantees you increasing salary as per the qualification.
‘Qualification’ is the key word as it can be studied as a theory and then add to it hours of work to bring in practical knowledge. So why is this profession not being looked up on as other majors?
It holds importance because today more than ever the corporate world is conscious of corporate social responsibility - CSR.
What is the role of a social worker?
‘Social worker’ is one of the most overused and overlapped term said Dr Nita Joseph, a psychologist.
Roles of social workers are keeping detailed records, client assessment, employment, counseling as well as create and implement plans.
Clients needs are assessed along with their situation. The main difference is that the social workers usually identify people and communities that need help, says another definition. It goes on to say social workers also help their clients cope with changes and challenges.
My friend explained, volunteers are not paid, but social workers receive a salary. Also notice how we use the term, ‘client’?
It is a professional environment. There are trainings and skills involved.
Nita explained further by saying professional social workers are able to bridge the gap in resources too.
A little bit of research explained that the basic functions of social work has been defined as restoration of social functioning cover provision of resources and prevention of social dysfunction. The role of social worker according to Ontario Social Service Workers Association is to help clients in dealing with personal and social problems by delivering counseling, community services and social support programmes.
They practice almost in all human services settings with a variety of ages and populations.
Social work as a profession finds out what is the social environment of the person and they are able to bridge the gap to mobilise resources.
The society needs both groups of people. The beauty of being a volunteer is the mental satisfaction one gets from extending one’s services to the development of the society and betterment of mankind.
It was an exceptionally interesting day with immense discussion with interesting people.
A day is indeed fruitful when we learn something new everyday.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
