Repositori URV

Identifier: imarina:9437572

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9437572

Authors:
Elisa Alegre AgísM Victòria Forns Fernández

Abstract:
This article sets out the testimonies of social workers of basic social services in Catalonia, focussing on the primary problems related to the internal operation of these services and the practice of the profession in our nation when it comes to addressing the chronic nature of poverty. The research underpinning this paper is qualitative and encompasses a SWOT analysis and semi-structured interviews with 18 social workers from across the region who carry out their professional activity locally at both town and county councils. The findings highlight the foremost challenges arising from the pressure involved with delivering care and the stipulated number of professionals. These include the digital divide; bureaucratisation and excess managerial and administrative tasks; the informal transfer of responsibilities that are not incumbent upon social services; a shortage of human and material resources; and the discomfort and chronic stress suffered by social workers. The analysis focuses on the weaknesses and threats that need to be overcome to ensure the smooth delivery of basic social services. These issues directly or indirectly affect the care intended to deal with the chronic nature of poverty exhibited by the target population.