Preparing for success : social worker experiences in remote and rural communities in British Columbia

Abstract

This action-oriented research study explored the inquiry question: How might the Ministry of Children and Family Development focus on improving how social workers are prepared to work in remote and isolated communities throughout the province? Personal in-depth interviews and small focus groups were used to gather qualitative data based on the personal lived experiences of employees within the partner organization. These methods adhered to the Royal Roads University requirements for research. The findings indicated social workers were often unprepared for the challenges seen in child welfare work in remote and rural communities throughout British Columbia, which had a direct and significant detrimental impact on employee retention, wellness, and client service delivery. Inquiry recommendations support the need to view remote and rural community work as unique and the need for specialized training and systemic support that focuses on remote and rural community practice.