Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Policies directly impact the lives of the clients we serve. There are so many laws, regulations, and programs that are voted on and put into place that effect housing, education, healthcare, and even the social service programs available to vulnerable populations. It is important to understand how policies effect individuals at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Once we understand the impact, we can analyze strengths and weaknesses of policies and then advocate for change.
Practice Behaviors
- Identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well being,service delivery, and access to social services.
- Assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social services.
- Apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice
Evidence
Field
In all of the programs I have participated in through Partnership: Elder Services, I have seen how the policies and procedures for TennCare (long-term care) and CHOICES Program effects the available resources to vulnerable older adults. I was able to create a quick guide for these programs that could be used to easily understand all of the requirements to qualify for these programs. To build on this I was able to analyze the benefits and major gaps of these programs.
Tenncare/Choices guide and analysis
Academic
I had the privilege of being able to take a trip to Washington D.C. with my Social Welfare Policy Class in order to advocate for better healthcare for vulnerable pregnant mothers. I worked in a team of three to create a pamphlet and presentation to give to Senator Corker.