Social workers Tauwhiro
Social workers advise, support and advocate for people with personal or social problems.
What social workers do
What a social worker does depends on the area they work in, but they may:
- help with the wellbeing of tamariki, rangatahi, whānau and their communities
- help people find resources such as information, accommodation, benefits, home services and community groups
- talk to and counsel people about their problems and advise them of their rights
- help people with crises and support vulnerable people.
Social workers work with people of all ages, from pēpi to older adults. They usually specialise in areas such as:
- health
- drugs and alcohol
- family harm.
Social workers may be able to help you and your whānau with arranging financial support, emotional support and other services within the community.
They work in a range of settings, including:
- schools
- hospitals
- government agencies
- community agencies.
Social workers are trained to understand cultural needs and are guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi | the Treaty of Waitangi.
Finding a social worker
You can get help finding a social worker through:
- your healthcare provider
- a government agency such as Oranga Tamariki
- hospitals
- schools
- community agencies.
Search for a social worker on Healthpoint.
Social work services — HealthpointCost of seeing a social worker
A social worker's services are free if you meet the criteria of the service or agency. Needs assessment can be accessed through a hospital or your healthcare provider.