Introduction
Case work is one of the fundamental methods in social work that involves direct interaction with individuals to help them solve their personal and social problems. In India, the scope of case work has expanded with increasing social complexities and the need for professional interventions across multiple fields.
Scope of Case Work Practice in India
1. Family Welfare
Case workers address family issues such as marital conflict, domestic violence, and child abuse. They work with both individuals and families to resolve conflicts and strengthen relationships.
2. Child Welfare
In organizations like Childline and Child Welfare Committees, social case workers help abandoned, abused, or neglected children by providing emotional support, legal help, and rehabilitation services.
3. Medical and Psychiatric Settings
Hospitals, mental health centers, and rehabilitation clinics employ case workers to support patients dealing with illness, disability, or trauma. They act as a bridge between the patient and hospital services.
4. Schools and Educational Institutions
School social workers help students with learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and emotional issues. They also assist in creating inclusive education environments.
5. Correctional Institutions
Case work is used in prisons, juvenile homes, and probation services to help offenders reform and reintegrate into society. It also includes counseling and family reunification support.
6. Community Development
In slums and rural areas, case workers assist individuals in accessing health care, education, employment, and welfare schemes.
7. Disaster Response
Case workers are engaged in post-disaster situations to support survivors with trauma counseling, resource linkage, and rebuilding efforts.
Conclusion
The scope of case work in India is vast and ever-expanding. With the increasing demand for individualized services and emotional support, case work remains an essential and evolving method in the Indian social work profession.