Question

Discuss some of the ways in which social policy affects what we can and cannot do in practice. Do people who work with vulnerable populations have a responsibility to advocate on behalf of the people they serve?

Answer 1

Social policy has implications on what we can do to alleviate social problems. For instance, if there are special provisions to improve the health and educational status of the underprivileged, it will enable them to acquire better status in society. Similarly, in the absence of a progressive taxation policy and subsidies to the poor, equal distribution of income is not possible. Under such circumstances, a social worker can also spread awareness among the underprivileged that there are special provisions for their welfare and facilitate their access to these benefits. Those who work with vulnerable populations have the responsibility to represent the people they work for or study. The vulnerable people may not be in a position to fight for and get access to the benefits they deserve. People working with them may have better connections and networks to advocate for social policy favouring these vulnerable groups.