Abstract
M.A. (Social Work)
South Africa is a society undergoing major and rapid social change. An understanding of
psychiatric services in the psychiatric hospital should also be identified within this context. The
needs of the mentally ill and other interested parties will determine the extent of the services that
need to be rendered.
The social worker as part of the interdisciplinary team in the hospital, must have a clear
perception of her professional role in order to render a relevant service. Social work must
become more responsive to the consumers' needs and allow itself to be shaped by the context
in which it is practised.
In this study the role of the social worker in Weskoppies Hospital was identified by means of a
descriptive research design with qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. The
qualitative research was done by means of in depth interviews and focus groups with interested
parties. The quantitative research was done by means of questionnaires completed by patients
of the hospital.
A model for the role description of the social worker was derived from a literature study; the view
of Lister, as described by the authors Hepworth & Larsen; the view of other authors and the
results of the qualitative and quantitative research.
The results of the research confirmed a need for social work services in Weskoppies Hospital.
The greatest need expressed, was a need for help with material problems, followed by a need
for help to be linked with other resources. Although community involvement was emphasised,
there still was a need for individual counseling and support. Other important roles were also
identified.
The model serves as an integrated description of the role of the social worker in the hospital.
From the results of the research it was thus possible to convey a clear picture of the role of the
social worker in Weskoppies Hospital. Hopefully this will enable the social workers in the hospital
to render a better and more understanding service to the patients, hospital and community.