Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 1) | Page 51

Social Work and First Principles

There is usually a complex range of factors that a social worker must consider
when assessing the needs and wishes of an individual. The assessment process
should involve selecting, categorising, organising and synthesising data. This
allows the social worker to prioritise issues, build a relationship and plan and
review. Assessment is a continuous process, not a one-off event. A family’s
circumstances may fluctuate and so can an individual’s physical, mental or
neurological health condition which may require periodic reassessment. Such
effective on-going assessments require highly skilled practitioners.

Case co-ordination – why social work training can
help one to do this well
Situations where people have complex needs generally will also have
involvement from other statutory, voluntary, private and community agencies.
The role of a case coordinator is important where multiple agencies are
involved in a plan. In the case of social care, the service user can “get lost” in
the complex pathway of health and social care. A case co-coordinator can help
to ensure that services, support and advice are wrapped around the person
rather than the person having to fit into a service model. What is helpful is
a multi-professional case coordination which involves a social worker or care
coordinator focusing on following through the interventions and support.
Use of self
One of the key principles in social work is “the use of self. “ People often
wonder what this is all about. Acknowledging that there is no set formula to
refer to requires social workers to use their knowledge, skills and values in
adopting the role of an enabler, facilitator and negotiator when working with
individuals and their families. Social workers are uniquely trained and placed
to deal with such ambiguity. Instead of relying on set techniques, the social
worker’s greatest tool is his or herself in understanding and supporting others
to achieve their self-selected outcomes. This is often how social workers
go about doing collaborative work to promote independence and autonomy
wherever circumstances allow it.

50