Human Rights in Social Work Practice

Objective:

Using one example of practice from your social work placement, critically review how, in light of your additional learning about human rights on the module, you might have achieved a more explicit human rights approach in your work. You are expected to draw from THREE sources of learning for this essay:

• Learning from reading and lectures on Human Rights Instruments, Laws, Processes, and Practices.
• Learning from group work on ‘Evidencing Human Rights in Practice’ within the module.
• Learning from your own practice experience and knowledge from your experience of social work practice (through your course to date).

• Objective:

  Using one example of practice from your social work placement, critically review how, in light of your additional learning about human rights on the module, you might have achieved a more explicit human rights approach in your work. You are expected to draw from THREE sources of learning for this essay:

  • Learning from reading and lectures on Human Rights Instruments, Laws, Processes, and Practices.
  • Learning from group work on ‘Evidencing Human Rights in Practice’ within the module.
  • Learning from your own practice experience and knowledge from your experience of social work practice (through your course to date).

  • Reconstruction:

    Reflecting on Michelle’s living conditions, I was deeply moved by the hardships of homelessness. My feelings of empathy and frustration led me to advocate for Michelle and Marie. I maintained hope for Michelle, who had been homeless for the past three years and was struggling with her mental health. Grief and loss theory (Kubler-Ross, 1969) became evident in my interaction with Michelle, as she had experienced significant losses, including the loss of her previous life and her relationship with her children, now living with her mother.

    More support is required for families transitioning from homelessness to permanent homes. I suggested a money management course to help families budget for household bills. My role as a student social worker was critical in advocating for Michelle and Marie. The organization responded proactively to my queries, providing funding to purchase sensory items for Marie’s sensory room.

    Conclusion:

    This assignment critically evaluates how human rights can be better applied in social work practice. Through my advocacy for Michelle and Marie, I aimed to ensure that their basic human rights were met, especially in terms of housing, education, and emotional well-being. By using relevant human rights instruments, such as the Disability Act 2005, and following legal advice, I was able to make a positive impact on their lives, though much more support is needed for families in similar situations.