As we approach World Social Work Day (WSWD) on the 18th of March, we extend warm wishes and solidarity with our members across Europe and all social workers across the globe.
We know that many of our members and the wider social work community will work throughout WSWD but we hope that all of you take some time to celebrate with colleagues and allies. WSWD is a time to remember that we are part of a global movement of social workers, united around common values and ethics and supportive of each other and the communities we serve.
We are united as a multigenerational family of social workers and this year’s theme of Intergenerational Solidarity celebrates something that is at the very core of social work as a profession and as a practice – the connection between generations and the value of familial and other relationships across ages and across extended networks. Positive social networks are what aid us in difficulty, boost and protect us with love and appreciation, help us thrive and become the best we can be. Intergenerational solidarity drives our economies and supports the ethic of equality and sharing resources across society and across the generations.
As social workers we often work with people who may not have positive social networks but we can use our skills to help people forge connections and support the strength of intergenerational relationships, sometimes helping to rebuild these in the most difficult of times. We remember and celebrate the many family members who step in to provide kinship care and love for children and young people separated from their birth parents, and the young people who visit older people, forging new friendships across the generations and creating mutual benefit.
We remember and celebrate the families torn apart by war in Europe and beyond and recognise the role of social workers in supporting separated families and helping to reunite children with parents, siblings, grandparents and friends.
To all social workers in Europe and beyond, we wish you strength in all your work and inspiration in supporting intergenerational solidarity.
Ruth Allen, IFSW Europe President
The IFSW Europe Executive will be publishing a full quarterly bulletin and updates from Europe members’ activities for WSWD week beginning 17th March.