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.
This article reflects on the importance of workflow design for students completing field education as part of a social work degree. Specifically, this article examines this in the context of an Aotearoa New Zealand social work student from the University of Waikato (UoW) completing a final placement at a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Battambang Cambodia, Children’s Future International (CFI). The main body of the article reflects on the advantages of designing an overseas placement approach which is planned to flow from theory development to practice implementation, termed “knowledge development and flow” (Henley et al., in press).
This article focuses on an international social work placement undertaken in Battambang, Cambodia. The article demonstrates the importance of joint work between university, student and host agency in designing clear tasks to be completed. The student and field educator returned home during this placement due to the impact of Covid-19. The article describes what changes were made to ensure the placement was able to continue, resulting in successful outcomes and learning achieved. Learning and reflections are provided by the student, Massey University and the field educator.
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