Engage in Policy Practice
Policy is an important aspect in a social worker’s career. As a social worker, one must keep up with current events and social issues that may be affecting clients. Being involved in policy can aid in advocating for client’s rights and have an impact on how services will be delivered, such as social welfare and economic policies. A social worker has a role in policy such as in the micro, mezzo, and macro level.
Practice Behaviors
1. Identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well-being, service delivery, and access to social services.
2. Assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social services.
3. Apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice.
Academic Evidence
During my time in the BSW program, I was involved in policy and worked on a policy brief which was presented in Washington D.C. The Immigration Reform Policy Brief analyzed Senate bill 3093, otherwise known as “Keeping Families Together and Enforcing the Law Act.” My group members and I initiated this topic and elaborated on the strengths, gaps, and limitations of this bill. We also shared recommendations for an effective bill. The policy brief was used when presenting it to the staffers of Senator Corker. During the Social Welfare Issues and Policies class, I learned the importance of being an advocate for policy and found a new passion in my social work career.
Internship Evidence
I attended a meeting consisted of medical staff and case managers of the Children’s Hospital in regards to a concerning listing patients as “confidential” versus “private” on the patient boards. I assessed the hospital’s policy with my field supervisor.