As evidenced in “Fire in the Ashes” by Jonathan Kozol, there are a variety of complications with regard to social welfare. Many of these issues are potentially treatable, or at the very least, temporarily solved through intervention from a qualified Social Worker. Social Workers are the first line of defense in solving potentially detrimental social welfare situations. Although these situations can be extremely complicated, and almost nothing in the field is finite or easily solvable, many situations can be alleviated or overcome by a thorough and caring Social Worker. For example, the inability to retain a solid education is a complication that can potentially be resolved. Another example is constant exposure to substandard living conditions.…show more content… Often, especially in urban or impoverished areas, substandard living conditions can be a catalyst for infectious diseases, unnecessary injuries, and mental illness. Additionally, these living conditions promote poor nutrition, and ultimately deficient development. This is a complicated scenario, for even the most accomplished social worker. In order to fix these deficiencies in living condition, a social worker must be prepared to work with many agencies. One way to improve the situation is to aggressively campaign for stringent guidelines and codes for both developers and owners of public housing facilities. Entirely too often, public housing facilities are dismissed with an “I will get to it when I do” mentality. This mentality is completely unacceptable. Public housing facilities need to be a safe place for children, seniors, and the mentally ill alike. In some cases, it is necessary for trained personnel to conduct home assessments to assure the client is not being exposed to dangers like lead poisoning, or respiratory issues due to mold. Additionally, education must be provided to the renters or inhabitants of these facilities with regard to the quality and safety of the home environment. Without a safe home, it is extremely difficult to provide support to a child. Safety is not just a practice, but also a feeling. When a child feels safe and secure, they are more receptive, socially,…show more content… Violence can occur in many ways, and whether violence affects the victim or the witness, it can destroy and prevent healthy development. In the case where violence is occurring, or is obviously a future danger, crisis intervention must be put in motion immediately. It is the Social Worker’s responsibility in assisting the victims with prompt medical attention. Not only does this provide relief from injuries sustained, but also an immediate and safe escape from any further violence. The first, and most important point, is to remove the victim from a violent situation. Following a violent incident, counseling will most certainly be a necessity. Depending on the severity of abuse, or the length of term of the abuse, many individuals can face dramatic post-traumatic stress symptoms. Through counseling, the victim can learn to work through emotional distress, and avoid further violent situations. Often, victims of abuse observe feelings of anxiety, fear, depression, guild, or even shame. Counseling can aid in reliving many of these symptoms. Of equal importance, is removing the victim or witness from the violent situation in a safe, secure, environment. Social Workers can intervene by connecting these victims with a safe living arrangement, such as a shelter or community program. Finally, it is the Social Worker’s responsibilities to not only educate the victim,
