Mitzi Dean, Minister of Children and Family Development, and Nicholas Simons, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, have issued the following statement to celebrate Social Work Week in B.C., March 14-20, 2021:

“This week in B.C., we are celebrating the outstanding work of the thousands of social workers and other front-line staff who are dedicated to helping vulnerable people throughout the province.

“Every day, social workers and front-line staff are dedicated to helping people build on their strengths, overcome challenges and achieve their goals and aspirations. Whether it’s advocating for services, providing counselling to help people with trauma or providing preventative supports, social workers and front-line staff make a real difference in the lives of thousands of British Columbians — from children and youth, to adults and families who need extra support.

“Social work professionals often work beyond a 9-5 workday, putting in extra hours to support the people they serve. This past year has brought new and unexpected challenges and an added layer of complexity for everyone who supports others in their times of need. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the emotional labour usually involved in this work has greatly increased. We want social workers and front-line staff to know their extra efforts are seen and valued.

“Social workers’ passion, integrity, grit and most of all, their commitment to people — often in the most challenging situations — is something to be celebrated. Their tireless work is changing people’s lives for the better. It is something we, as former social workers, recognize and are grateful for, not only during Social Work Week, but throughout the entire year.

“We look forward to sharing and celebrating stories from social workers over the coming week as a way to acknowledge the dedication they bring to their roles every day as they support those in need in their communities.

“To all of B.C.’s social workers and to front-line social service staff, thank you for your commitment to the people in our province and for all you do to help build a more just and compassionate society for everyone.”