HOW DO SOCIAL WORKERS ADVOCATE FOR POLICY CHANGE IN SINGAPORE?

Abstract

This study sought to find out how social workers advocate for policy change in Singapore. Although there were numerous challenges, yet a small group of social workers had successfully advocated. What factors affected how they advocate and what approaches did they take? Sixteen participants were purposefully sampled from voluntary welfare organizations, public hospitals and non-governmental organizations. Interviews were conducted and the data examined using thematic analysis. The findings showed that individual factors, extent of organizational support and perceptions of the socio-political environment were underlying factors which are posited to interact with one another to influence advocacy approaches. The primary approach was through insider tactics followed by indirect tactics. The nature of advocacy was seen as credible, planned yet unplanned, long term, harmonious and risky. Advocacy is a great opportunity to influence policies which in turn affect clients’ well-being. Hence, social workers regardless of seniority are encouraged to participate in it.