Social workers’ perspective on the impact of Covid-19 on clients’ vulnerability in Ghana

Abstract

Leaning on Vulnerability as a theoretical foundation, this study explores the perspective of social workers in Ghana, a global south country, concerning the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on their clients. Using a descriptive qualitative approach as a methodological standpoint, the study engaged 25 social workers, consisting of ten males and 15 females, selected through snowball sampling and interviewed via telephone. Analysing the data thematically, the findings suggested that social workers informed that their clients were confronted with economic hardship, inadequate state support, and childcare and social capital challenges. The study thus proposes the establishment of social protection infrastructure in the form of fiscal support and universal healthcare coverage for citizens, as a buffer to ensure a stable livelihood for all in times of crisis. It further suggests improvement of internet facilities throughout the country, to enable families to stay connected.