Code Of Ethics And Ethics In Social Work

How many times in your career do you have questions and concerns about decisions that need to be made, however you are unsure if you should consult with your supervisor due to it being ethical? I’m sure a lot of social workers have encountered this situation and if they haven’t I’m certain they will sometime in their career. When social workers work with clients the first process is to gain their trust, confidence, and respect. This is done in the first phase of the relationship. Questions and concern will arise about how to handle certain issues or concerns that will require them to go to their supervisor. So, sharing all ethical decision-making with your supervisor is considered ethical. When social workers consult with their supervisors

it “enhance the competency of the social worker and offer support” to them when they are uncertain about something, have concerns, or questions (web). “Supervisors share responsibilities for the services provided to their clients”, and it is their job to stay informed about the decisions that are being made by the social workers (web). Supervisors are there to ensure that the social worker is providing effective client services to each client that they are assisting. By keeping the supervisor informed it ensures them that the social worker is adhering to the policies, practice, and rules. Supervisors also assist with decision making, provide support and encouragement and reassurance by molding them into a wonderful social worker. “Ideally, supervisors should be familiar with their responsibilities and authority indicated in the agency’s policy manual” (web). “The supervisor’s ability to discharge his or her role well may have both ethical and legal implications” (web). “A key responsibility of the supervisor is to ensure that the recommendations made by the social worker are helpful to the client and the supervisor’s involvement in this decision-making process should be captured” (web). “In this way, the supervisor also models the process of assessment, of identifying key issues and conducting effective intervention” (web).