Social Work in the Time of COVID-19: A Case Study from the Global South

Acknowledging Gabriel García Márquez’s well-know novel Love in the Time of Cholera, this article explores the challenges of delivering social work services in the time of COVID-19, in the Global South. Staff experiences while working for a small rurally-based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) in Ek Phnom, Cambodia are presented. A staff survey and structured conversations were used while completing an internal auditing process. This audit was undertaken to assess responses to the challenges of the virus and how to increase safety of staff and people using services. Key themes arising were: effective communication methods responsiveness of case management systems public health responses adapting to emerging needs The gathered data resulted in a range of recommendations: strengthening partnerships can improve responsiveness to disasters case management systems need to be effective for current use but able to be adaptable to new circumstances disaster preparation should incorporate a focus on diversified funding streams open communication channels between staff and management are required The outcomes of this work are useful for NGO directors, managers and social workers, consideration of recommendations will enable social workers to continue delivering services within a post-disaster context, in the Global South. Abstract This article explores the experiences of social workers at a non-governmental organisation (NGO) involved in disaster responses to COVID-19 in a rural and resource-challenged region of Cambodia. The views of Khmer and international social workers in the NGO were gathered through an internal auditing process utilising survey and structured conversation methods. Key themes related to the importance of prioritising the safety of staff and clients, effective communication methods, responsiveness of case management systems, public health responses and adapting to emerging needs. To ensure responsiveness to future disaster events consideration should be given in strengthening partnerships, ensuring case management systems are effective for current use but able to be adapted in new circumstances, and that preparation incorporates a focus on diversified funding streams and open communication channels between staff and management. These elements will enable social workers to continue their practice, reassured and with the flexibility required in the post-disaster context.