5 minute read
Changing Direction
A message from the outgoing NSCSW Council President
It is with immense pride and a touch of nostalgia that I deliver my final report as President of the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. Reflecting on the past four years, it’s been an honour and privilege to serve this vibrant community. I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to our staff, council and committee members, and all members of the College for their dedication and exceptional service to the most vulnerable in our province and to the College itself.
Under the stewardship of the Governance team, we’ve made remarkable strides towards realizing the objectives outlined in our strategic plan. While we’ve met many of our goals, it’s clear that our overarching ambitions— fostering trust among our members and the public, committing to truth and reconciliation, and championing measures against antiBlack racism—have seen significant forward movement. Yet, we acknowledge that shaping the professional identity of social workers is an ongoing challenge. Nonetheless, I am especially proud of our successes in several core areas:
Enhanced Regulatory Outcomes
Our efforts to improve regulatory functions have borne fruit, with regulatory actions reflecting our commitment to high standards and 68% of surveyed members acknowledging our progress towards strategic objectives. Innovations like our new database system have streamlined registration and renewal processes, and updates to policies have been met with approval.
Strong Advocacy & Public Engagement
Our advocacy has been impactful, particularly highlighted by the establishment of the Social Policy Framework and advancements in child welfare. The consistent presence of our Executive Director/Registrar in public forums underscores our dedication to embodying our profession’s essential values.
Our collaborative endeavors have led to significant achievements, such as the creation of an Office for Children and Youth, development of a practice framework for child welfare, implementation of the Family Stability Support Program, and assurances for a mental health and addictions strategy that prioritizes social determinants of health. Our relationships with entities like the Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative, Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division, and the Nova Scotia Action Coalition for Community WellBeing have been instrumental in propelling policy and advocacy efforts forward.
Effective Professional Development Initiatives
The overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received from our members regarding our professional development initiatives has been a source of great encouragement. These initiatives, which highlight our dedication to principles of justice and equity, have successfully seen many of our members integrate their learnings into their practice, appreciating both their relevance and quality. 2023 was particularly notable, as our events drew an impressive attendance of 2800 individuals, showcasing the profound interest and engagement in what we offer. This significant level of participation is a clear indication of our members’ commitment to their professional growth and highlights the impact of our efforts to provide meaningful, high-quality professional development opportunities.
Additionally, our initiatives and events have garnered international attention, attracting participants from South Africa, the UK, and across Canada, underscoring the global relevance of our work. Following the establishment and subsequent reorganization of our YouTube channel in 2021 to better reflect our strategic priorities, we have witnessed a significant uptick in engagement. The content, particularly focusing on topics mandatory for all NSCSW registrants, has not only been popular among our members but also attracted a wider audience, including social workers from other jurisdictions, demonstrating the broad appeal and impact of our content.
These achievements are a testament to our continuous commitment to elevating the profession of social work, fostering a strong collective voice among our members, and promoting professional development that resonates with and benefits both our members and the broader community we aim to serve.
Candidacy Mentorship Program (CMP)
The CMP has proven to be an invaluable asset for social workers transitioning from academic settings into professional practice. It has enhanced professional identities, encouraged ethical practices, and supported the development of strategies to manage moral distress. Participation in the program correlates with a lower incidence of complaints, showcasing its efficacy in safeguarding public safety and enhancing accountability.
Looking Forward
As we transition to our next strategic plan, I am filled with optimism for the future of our profession and the communities we serve. I am honoured to continue contributing to our College’s vision and mission as Past President, confident in the knowledge that our collective efforts will continue to foster a safer, more inclusive, and equitable society.
In closing, I want to reiterate my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. Your hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment have been the keystones of our accomplishments. Together, we’ve set a strong foundation for the future—a future where the NSCSW continues to lead with integrity, compassion, and an unrelenting dedication to those we serve. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your President. Here’s to continuing our important work together, with the same spirit of collaboration, innovation, and excellence that has brought us this far.
