In social work times A message from the outgoing NSCSW Council President Challenging times. Unusual times. Exceptional times. Uncertain times. It strikes me that the pandemic has forced individuals, families, organizations, communities, companies and governments to confront, analyze and attempt to patch up the same inequities that social workers are all too familiar with in their work — pandemic or not. Social workers strive to ensure that families are safe in their homes, that patients’ rights are intact within institutions, that communities are empowered, that employers uphold equal opportunity, and that governments are aware of gaps in the systems and plans they roll out. Social workers are familiar with shifting playing fields designed to serve the majority, and
keep an eye out for the rights of the vulnerable and oppressed. Social workers are creative problem solvers, attentive mediators, passionate advocates and empathetic listeners. I would say that these times are social work times. The cause of the profession is being called upon in every corner of our society. Poverty, mental health, child welfare, and the needs of vulnerable older adults are on the forefront of our communal consciousness. Social work has been confronting these issues since inception and are now uniquely positioned to shed light on the source of those inequities, and to offer alternative strategies, policies, perspectives and solutions. When faced with a crisis, social workers rise to the occasion, and I am proud to say that in Nova Scotia we are doing just that.
