On World Social Work Day we acknowledge the significant contributions of the 6,500 social workers registered in Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Social Care Council (Social Care Council) extends its thanks to all our social workers for their commitment to making a difference for the people they support, and making a difference for our community.
World Social Work Day is organised annually by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW). And is marked worldwide on 21 March. The theme for 2023 is ‘Respecting diversity through joint social action’ acknowledging the vital role social workers play in inclusive social transformation within communities around the world.
As the body responsible for regulating Northern Ireland’s 6,500 social workers, the Social Care Council is recognising the expertise of social workers and the important role they have in supporting inclusion and diversity within the community. This year has been a particularly challenging year as social workers have had to deal with the ongoing pressures on the health and social care system, and the after effects of the pandemic. However, during the many challenges of the last year, social workers have responded by ensuring communities are supported in very difficult circumstances. Across health and social care, education, justice, and the voluntary sector, social workers have diligently continued to provide services and support to those in need in our community.
In recognition of the social work profession, and to celebrate World Social Work Day, we launched a campaign in March to promote social work and to recognise and celebrate social workers’ expertise and the important role they have in supporting inclusion and diversity in our community. I invite you to check out our social media channels and view our new video series showing inspirational social work stories.
On World Social Work day we recognise all our social workers in all areas of practice for their role in ensuring inclusive social transformation.
Patricia Higgins
Chief Executive
Social Care Council
For more information
Follow the conversation on social media, using the #WorldSocialWorkDay and #WSWD2023 hashtags.
For media queries contact:
Rita Lewtas, Head of Strategic Communications and Engagement – Rita.lewtas@niscc.hscni.net