Publications from ODSW Social Work Supervsion | 页面 56

Workshop 3: PPIS Coordinated Multi-Pronged Supervision Programme: Towards An Evidence Based Approach’

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Rationale
PPIS Supervision Infrastructure
Processes
Implementation
Challenges and Possibilities
Conversations
Reflections

Rationale
Other than it being an organizational pursuit to develop its pool of social workers and
looking at the current supervision model in PPIS, Ms Mosli shared 4 other reasons for the
restructuring of supervision within PPIS – the capability factor, retaining social workers,
relationships with supervisors and a widening gap between credentials and passion
(Michael Burawoy, 2005).
1. Capability factor
She expressed that in 2012, there was a sudden influx of workers- of those who had made
a career switch, newer and younger social workers, and supervisors who were supervising
for the first time. This ‘bottom heavy’ organizational phenomenon adds strain to the
available and limited pool of supervisors. This meant that there was a sudden increase in
the need for supervision for those who had made a career switch and for the newer social
workers. In addition, greater training and structure was needed with regards to supervision
so as to guide the newer supervisors in their supervision. This pushed PPIS to think
differently about ways and approaches towards developing and sustaining the capability of
its social workers.
2. Retaining social workers
Ms Mosli emphasized that clinical supervision is an integral part of retaining social workers
as it offers space to recognizing, experiencing and dealing with social work impasses as
one attends to complicated cases. The role of clinical supervision is crucial, as it not only
offer space for skills and personal development; it too, offers a supporting relationship that
motions the retention of social workers.
3. Relationships with supervisors
Ms Mosli shared that the relationships supervisees share with supervisors is important and
has to be maintained professionally. While some supervisors may want to focus on just
clinical skills alone, it is difficult for both supervisor and supervisee to distinguish the two
roles. This may affect the effectiveness of clinical supervision. PPIS had decided that
clinical supervision be done and conducted by PDCSSP while the respective Centre
Manager will offer administrative supervision. This opens up the need for more
conversation amongst Centre Managers and Clinical supervisors.
4. Widening gap
Ms Mosli expressed that she had also observed an increase in the pursuit for credentials
and a corresponding decrease in the focus on passion for human justice and equality in the
social service sector. She expressed that many are concerned with acquiring their diplomas
or certification in the use of various therapies but have lost their passion for social justice
and equality.

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