‘Thank you for being there for those in need’
“This year’s World Social Work Day theme ‘Co-building a New Eco-Social World: Leaving No One Behind’ is in line with the theme for the people´s summit that will take place from June 29 to July 2, 2022.
“The people’s summit emanates as a recovery approach as the world rebounds from the Covid-19 pandemic. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterresdescribes Covid-19 as“a human tragedy” which “has also created a generational opportunityto build back a more equal and sustainable world”. Such has a direct link to the social work arena for social workers, being human service professionals, and active agents aim towardsenhancement of overall well-being and assisting to meet the basic and complex needs of individuals and communities.The social profession has to embracethechanging and adaptive nature of human beings who affect and are affected by the environment they live in.
“From the time the first cases of Covid-19 surfacedlocally, social workers have witnessed its direct and indirect impacts on families. Many have suffered loss from the separation of loved ones due to restrictions imposed, work exigencies, quarantine, isolation or sadly from death. During those challenging times social workers had to re-adjust to become more creative so as to provide support to those in need, ensuring continuity of service. The support brought by social workers have enabled many individuals and families to bounce back, find new purpose in life and adapt to new routines brought about by the new reality.
“This year’s theme symbolises hope for our planet. Wherever we may be in our little corner of the world, we have learnt to co-exist within our eco-systems. Social workers continue to uphold the core values of the profession by respecting human dignity, incorporate the needs of everyone in global conversations, discussions and actions taken locally as they interact with multiple partners who play a significant role in building the new eco-social world.
“As we celebrate World Social Work Day 2022, I pay special tribute to the dedicated team of social workers within my ministry and those trained in the social work field, using your expertise in other sectors for the well-being of our fellow citizens. I recognise that the challenges are many but no matter what, social workers find ways of surmounting these challenges and never give up. The mental fatigue and exhaustion is immeasurable but the reward of making a difference in peoples’ lives are far greater.
“I urge you all to stay loyal to your profession despite the adversities and complex nature of your work. You may not hear this often but Seychelles needs you.Thank you for being there for those in need.
“I wish all social workers a Happy Social Work Day.”
Source: Seychelles Nation