The role of the occupational social worker in dealing with the social problems of migrant labourers

Abstract

The goal of this study was to clarify the unclear role of the occupational social workers in dealing with migratory workers The study aimed at firstly: to describe the nature of problems experienced by migrant workers. Secondly: to define the role of the occupational social workers when dealing with typical problems of the migrant workers. The respondents comprised of occupational social workers based at the mines and the Centres for Human Development. The research tool which was used was a self administered questionnaire. The findings revealed that; the migrant workers do experience a wide variety of problems which are caused by the migratory labour system. the social workers are important members of the industry personnel because they are specialists in the handling of psychosocial problems. management utilized the service to enhance the well being of the employees and productivity. the workforce is made aware of the services through marketing and they utilize the service to their benefit. unique demands are directed at occupational social workers dealing with migrants. the occupational social workers dealing with migrant workers are faced with more challenges, tasks and roles. The following is the hypothesis of the study: "IF THE MIGRATORY WORKERS EXPERIENCE UNIQUE SOCIAL PROBLEMS, THEN CERTAIN ROLES AND TASKS WILL BE DEMANDED OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SOCIAL WORKERS DEALING WITH THESE PROBLEMS". This hypothesis was confirmed. These social workers are definitely faced with more challenges, roles and tasks. Recommendations made in relation to the findings suggested that : i) Married quarters be available so that the migrants can stay with their families, this will lessen their problems. ii) Social workers should be included in the personnel serving in the workplace in order to identify and tackle relevant problem areas. iii) Management support is needed in order to make the service effective, they should understand what the service entails to ensure profitable use of the service. iv) Ongoing marketing of the service was recommended. Additional specific knowledge regarding service delivery is required for effective practice in occupational social work. vi) Cross cultural awareness as well as the ability to handle cultural differences is crucial in these social workers' intervention.