A day in the life of a social worker

In the 1990s, social work was often seen as a profession focused primarily on marginalised groups, such as children in care, single mothers and individuals with mental health issues. Over the years the demands on social workers in Malta have increased dramatically due to social changes, such as smaller family units, greater work pressures and more isolated lifestyles. While these changes have made social work more necessary public perception still often misrepresents the profession.

Social workers today deal with a range of issues including child abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse and poverty. Many people are unaware of their roles in settings like schools, hospitals, law courts and residential homes for the elderly. A social worker’s job is to assess situations, advocate for individuals, and collaborate with other professionals to help people improve their lives and reintegrate into society. Despite this, social workers are often misunderstood, with some perceiving them as cold-hearted "kidnappers" or as ineffective professionals who leave vulnerable children in harmful situations.

A typical day for a social worker begins with numerous calls from individuals seeking help. Often, people expect immediate solutions to their complex problems and social workers are required to empathise and comprehend their clients’ struggles. Whilst social workers may wish they could solve problems instantly they must respect everyone’s autonomy and dignity. They work with clients to understand their issues and guide them towards finding solutions, all the while maintaining a professional boundary. This involves listening to people in distress, often deeply involved in situations of abuse, addiction or trauma.

One of the greatest challenges is balancing empathy with professionalism. Social workers need to understand their clients’ experiences without becoming too emotionally invested. For example, it’s difficult to grasp how an abused woman can still love her abuser or why someone continues destructive behaviour despite the consequences. Social workers must help clients confront these issues while ensuring they do not justify harmful actions. This requires immense emotional resilience.

Additionally, social workers face resistance from other professionals who may focus only on their specific areas of expertise, sometimes ignoring the broader context of a person’s situation. While collaboration is essential, it can be challenging when other professionals do not share the same holistic perspective. Furthermore, social workers often deal with clients who become aggressive or even violent when their expectations are unmet or when they feel frustrated with the system.

Social workers also face physical and emotional threats, from verbal abuse to more serious acts of violence. Despite these challenges, they persevere, remaining committed to promoting human dignity, respect and self-worth. Their job is not only about helping clients overcome immediate crises but also about fostering long-term well-being.

Though the job can be emotionally taxing, it also has its rewards. Social workers often form deep, trusting relationships with clients, who share their most personal struggles. There are moments of joy when clients find stability, gain confidence or can move forward in their lives. These small successes, though not always visible to the public, are what keep social workers dedicated to their work. They may not change the world but they can help individuals find hope and healing.

Being a social worker means carrying the weight of society’s most vulnerable, understanding their pain and working tirelessly to improve their lives. While they face significant challenges, their commitment to social justice and human dignity remains the foundation of their profession. Being a social worker may also mean laughing with clients. Clients share their stories and experiences and pour their heart out. But they also cry with us, they trust us and look for guidance and support, even on superficial matters. This is the result of constant work with other people, helping them live life with dignity and self-respect.

The article was written by Andreana Gellel Manager - Child Protection Directorate