Exploring Trauma-Related Social Work Practice in a Resource-Limited Context: Insights from Social Workers in the Waterberg District, South Africa

Elca Erlank; Rhulani Sherlock Bopape

doi:10.25159/2708-9355/14574

Authors

Elca Erlank University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7024-0005
Rhulani Sherlock Bopape University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6798-3799

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2708-9355/14574

Keywords:

challenges, secondary trauma, social workers, trauma-informed services, trauma-informed perspective, trauma-related services, trauma-specific services

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the challenges faced by social workers delivering trauma-related services (TRS) in the resource-limited Waterberg District, Limpopo, South Africa. Using a phenomenological design guided by the ecosystem and trauma-informed perspectives, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 experienced social workers. Data analysis followed Tesch’s eight steps, with data verification per Lincoln and Guba’s model. The findings highlighted the need for trauma-informed organisational structures and workforce support in the Waterberg District, advocating for integrating trauma-informed principles into policies and procedures to enhance professional effectiveness and capacity for service delivery to trauma victims. The findings further underscored the urgent necessity for improved training and education for social workers to tackle issues related to trauma adeptly.

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