Abstract:

The author states that her first social work placement demonstrated how legislation and policy in New South Wales have failed to deliver adequate services to many people with disabilities. Planning and policies without adequate resourcing have created a tiered system of care. Those who are able to access some support and those who fall through the net. Despite the promises of recent policy pronouncements, social workers have to face up to harsh reality. Placing clients with disabilities in poorly serviced boarding houses or crisis accommodation is often the only option available. Problems are being shunted around rather than solved. The following article discusses observations from student placement in the area of disabilities and reflects on the role of a social worker. A role that seems squeezed between being an agent for change and that of propping up a system that is violating the civil rights of people with disabilities.