As we commemorate Social Worker Month in March, Prof Retha Bloem, a research director at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) research focus area Community Psychosocial Research (COMPRES) acknowledges the significant influence and unwavering commitment of social workers globally.

She says research played a crucial role in advancing the profession by providing insight into societal dynamics and developing effective intervention strategies.

Prof Bloem also emphasises the dedication of social workers to evidence-based practice, ensuring their proactive approach in addressing complex social problems and advocating for positive community change.

She urges South Africans to recognise the unwavering commitment of these professionals and reaffirm their unwavering support for social workers’ essential research efforts.

“During Social Work Month we pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of social workers globally, who tirelessly devote themselves to advancing this profession at every level. This month is an opportunity to acknowledge the significant influence of their empathetic efforts and emphasise the vital role of research in promoting social work.

“Through continuous research efforts, social workers aim to improve their comprehension of societal dynamics and develop effective intervention strategies to address these dynamics. By prioritising evidence-based practice, they consistently lead in promoting beneficial transformations in communities,” she adds.

Prof Retha Bloem