Needs, Risks and Personal Safety of Social Workers in the Field

Abstract

Social Work is one of the most hands-on occupations one could ask for. Social workers are completely involved in their client’s life for better or for worse. Because of which an occupational hazard is that they are highly susceptible to the potential harm. From being employed in the social services department or in a corporate sector, risks or challenges are inherent to the job. In the field, social workers could face health hazards, challenges due to lack of defensive training, mentally unstable clients who cause harms if appropriate safety measures are not taken. Unfortunately, the number of studies pertaining to these risks that a social worker could or do face are rather low, especially in India. Social workers support and take care of the vulnerable, the helpless, the marginalized, and the disadvantaged members of society. However, who supports the very same social workers when they require help themselves?