The perception of legal aid lawyers about the social work profession and the role of social workers in Malta

Abstract

The aim of this study is to uncover the perception held by legal aid lawyers about what the social work profession and the role of social workers in the Maltese society entail. This was considered as to be able to understand better and raise awareness about the contribution of social work to society. The study was especially done in view of further complexities of social problems present in the Maltese society, additional demand to social services, and due to the possible correlation amongst social and legal problems.

To be able to answer the research question, I sought to gather information about the collaboration amongst social workers and legal aid lawyers, and the attributes that are associated to social work. A qualitative methodology was adopted. This provided a more comprehensive description of the participants’ opinions and experiences, while also an interpretation of the meaning they give to their actions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven legal aid lawyers. Thematic analysis was then used to analyse the data gathered.

This research showed how legal aid lawyers agree about the definition which they give to social workers. Although most of the participants lacked clarity about the role of the social worker, a common element which was brought up was that of the provision of guidance leading to the right action. It was found, how although the main goals of legal aid lawyers and social workers tend to differ, both professions have a tendency to work mainly with people coming from the bottom strata of society.

This study concludes that legal aid lawyers hold an optimistic perception of their collaboration with social workers as they both aim to maintain the best interest of the client. All of the participants reported being willing to refer clients to a social worker should they be more informed about the services provided, and if the client consents to such a referral. Despite of the lack of insight about social work, this study uncovered that legal aid lawyers hold a high esteem towards social workers and the work that they do. I aspire that this research study will help increase the understanding which people have about the social work profession and the role of social workers. Moreover, through such understanding, I aim for the ability of legal aid lawyers and social workers to work more productively together and refer clients without any hesitation when there is the need.