Minister of Children and Family Development Stephanie Cadieux has issued the following statement in recognition of Social Work Week in British Columbia, March 13 to 19, 2016:

“March is National Social Work Month and this is Social Work Week in B.C. – an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding dedication of our province’s social workers, clinicians and other front-line staff. It’s also a chance to get the word out about the emotional and often difficult work they do, each and every day, to protect and support vulnerable children and families.

“At a time when their jobs and decisions are often in the media, we need to acknowledge and respect our social workers for the positive and life-changing decisions they make. It’s not an easy job. Sometimes it’s heart breaking. But it can also be rewarding beyond measure.

“Whether it’s parents who need counselling and access to resources, or a child waiting for a forever home, social workers give struggling families a sense of hope. Their commitment to always making decisions in the best interest of the children and families they serve is never in question. They are community heroes and they deserve our respect and gratitude.

“This Social Work Week, we’re profiling some of B.C.’s social workers to give people a glimpse into the meaningful and challenging work they do. We put out a call to our regional offices and the names came rushing in from communities large and small. I’m humbled by the energy, breadth of experience and compassion these individuals bring to their work.

“People like Brendan Flynn, who before passing away unexpectedly a few weeks ago, devoted 38 years of his life to helping vulnerable children and families throughout the Okanagan. Or Sharon Foden, a guardianship-adoption worker who single-handedly found more forever homes for young people than any other social worker in the province over the last five years.

“Through the day-to-day stories of some of B.C.’s exceptional social workers, we get a look at their mental and emotional strength and gain insight into what drives them to perform one of the toughest jobs in the province.

“If a social worker has made a significant impact in your life, I encourage you to take the time and show your appreciation for the great job they do.

“On behalf of the Province and all British Columbians, thank you to the thousands of dedicated social workers, clinicians and front-line workers for your unwavering commitment to vulnerable children, families and individuals.”

To read the 2016 Social Work Week Proclamation, please visit: http://goo.gl/C0CRZM