Abstract:
The goal of this study was to clarify the unclear role of the occupational social workers in
dealing with migratory workers
The study aimed at firstly:
to describe the nature of problems experienced by migrant workers.
Secondly:
to define the role of the occupational social workers when dealing with typical
problems of the migrant workers.
The respondents comprised of occupational social workers based at the mines and the
Centres for Human Development.
The research tool which was used was a self administered questionnaire.
The findings revealed that; the migrant workers do experience a wide variety of problems
which are caused by the migratory labour system.
the social workers are important members of the industry personnel because they
are specialists in the handling of psychosocial problems.
management utilized the service to enhance the well being of the employees and
productivity.
the workforce is made aware of the services through marketing and they utilize the
service to their benefit. unique demands are directed at occupational social workers dealing with migrants.
the occupational social workers dealing with migrant workers are faced with more
challenges, tasks and roles.
The following is the hypothesis of the study:
"IF THE MIGRATORY WORKERS EXPERIENCE UNIQUE SOCIAL
PROBLEMS, THEN CERTAIN ROLES AND TASKS WILL BE DEMANDED OF
THE OCCUPATIONAL SOCIAL WORKERS DEALING WITH THESE
PROBLEMS".
This hypothesis was confirmed. These social workers are definitely faced with more
challenges, roles and tasks.
Recommendations made in relation to the findings suggested that :
i) Married quarters be available so that the migrants can stay with their families, this
will lessen their problems.
ii) Social workers should be included in the personnel serving in the workplace
in order to identify and tackle relevant problem areas.
iii) Management support is needed in order to make the service effective, they should
understand what the service entails to ensure profitable use of the service.
iv) Ongoing marketing of the service was recommended. Additional specific knowledge regarding service delivery is required for effective
practice in occupational social work.
vi) Cross cultural awareness as well as the ability to handle cultural differences is
crucial in these social workers' intervention.
