Responses To Week 6 Discussions

Responses To Discussions For Week 6 Discussionsdiscussion Policy Prop

Respond to a colleague with an alternative approach to addressing the problem they identified regarding policy advocacy for Jose and/or Iris. Discuss the responsibilities of social workers working with these individuals to advocate for change in social policy.

Paper For Above instruction

The role of social workers extends beyond individual client support to encompass active advocacy for systemic social policy changes that address the root causes of clients' issues. In the context of Jose and Iris, social workers have the ethical and professional responsibility to advocate for policies that promote social justice, reduce recidivism, and improve access to essential services such as substance abuse treatment, housing, and employment opportunities (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2017).

One vital responsibility of social workers in this scenario is to serve as mediators and advocates within policy-making processes. They must gather comprehensive evidence about the challenges faced by clients like Jose and Iris—such as homelessness, substance addiction, and criminal justice involvement—and translate these findings into policy recommendations that can influence legislation. For instance, lobbying for reforms that divert offenders with substance use issues from incarceration into community-based treatment programs reflects a proactive approach rooted in ethical practice (Reisch & Phan, 2019).

Furthermore, social workers should work to ensure that policies are inclusive and equitable. The policy proposals suggested in the discussions focus on incarceration alternatives and post-release support, which are critical but must be complemented by broader strategies addressing systemic inequalities, such as racial disparities and socioeconomic factors that disproportionately impact minority populations like Iris and Jose (Lloyd & Bland, 2017). Advocacy efforts could include promoting policies that expand affordable housing, increase funding for mental health and addiction services, and eliminate barriers to employment for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Additionally, social workers have a responsibility to educate policymakers about the complex social determinants affecting clients’ lives. They should also foster community engagement to build diverse coalitions that can push for sustainable policy changes. Building alliances with mental health organizations, housing agencies, and community groups amplifies advocacy efforts and ensures that policies are responsive to clients’ actual needs (Reisch, 2018).

Engaging in direct policy advocacy requires social workers to be knowledgeable about the legislative process, effective communicators, and persistent in their efforts. They must balance immediate client needs with strategic long-term advocacy, maintaining their commitment to social justice principles (Mullaly, 2019). Ultimately, by actively participating in policy development, social workers help create an environment where clients like Jose and Iris can access the support they need to lead healthier, more stable lives.

References

• Lloyd, C., & Bland, R. (2017). Equity, social justice, and social policy: Critical reflections on contemporary issues. Journal of Social Policy, 46(3), 567-583.
• Mullaly, R. (2019). The New Structural Social Work (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW). (2017). Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. NASW Press.
• Reisch, M., & Phan, S. (2019). The challenges and opportunities of policy advocacy in social work. Social Policy & Administration, 53(4), 561-571.
• Reisch, M. (2018). Building effective advocacy strategies: A handbook for social workers. Oxford University Press.