Social welfare and social policy

Social welfare and social policy

Introduction

Social workers are trained professions with a dual mission: to assist individuals, and groups, to enhance their capacity for their efficient social working, as well as, creating social changes in the society (Social Work Profession, 2013). The two distinctive branches of the social work surfaced in the United States due to Charity Organization Societies and the Settlement House Movement, in late 1800s. In later years, the activities of Settlement House Movement eventually resulted in, group work and community organizations. The emergence of social work profession was due to the complex needs of the society, seen in Europe and US resulting from urbanization and industrialization. In modern times, the challenge of social work is to find a balance between the dual focus of the profession, in order to provide the essential needs of an individual within the context of the environment (Settlement House Movement, n.d.).

Discussion

Ideology differences of Settlement Homes and the Charity Organization Societies

Both settlement houses and charity organization aim to provide value to the communities, which they serve. Nonetheless, the way of working for these two is completely different. The settlement houses focus on serving the community comprising of individuals by providing them with a wide array of services. On the contrary, charity organization focuses on raising funds for a variety of causes. The major difference between these two types of social work in the way of treatment they offer to an individual (Coyne, 2013).

History of Settlement Houses

In the early 20th century, the influx of immigrants in the Unites States contributed in the formation of first American settlement houses. These particular houses formed the foundation of social work as a profession, reflecting the professional outcomes. There were more than 400 settlement houses by 1918, providing services for large communities across the country (Settlement House Movement, n.d.).

On the other hand, charity organization laid their foundations prior to settlement houses and social work. Wealthy women, having no professional training, ran the majority of these organizations. However, the fund they raised, through balls and bazaars, were for the poor but did little to help the individuals for improvement.

Aim of Settlement houses

Settlement houses focus on the community as a whole. They provide services that range from citizenship classes, preparing for tests, or day care programs for working parents. These houses aim to improve the overall welfare of the society through a wide array of ...