Approaches to strengthen social work participation in social welfare service delivery: a case study of Zvishavane town council. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Kudanga, Blessing

Title

Approaches to strengthen social work participation in social welfare service delivery: a case study of Zvishavane town council.

Abstract

This study explores approaches to enhance the participation of social workers in the delivery of social welfare services within the Zvishavane Town Council in Zimbabwe. Despite the pivotal role of social workers in promoting human well-being and addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities, their involvement in public service delivery remains limited due to various institutional, financial, and structural challenges. The research investigates the current state of service delivery by the Welfare Department, assesses the societal impacts of inadequate services, and examines community perceptions of social workers. Drawing on systems theory and the theory of social justice as the guiding theoretical frameworks, the study emphasizes the importance of holistic, participatory, and rights-based approaches to service provision. A qualitative case study methodology was adopted, involving in-depth interviews with key stakeholders including social workers, council officials, and community members. The findings reveal key challenges such as poor coordination between departments, inadequate funding, staff shortages, lack of community engagement, and limited recognition of the social work profession. Furthermore, the study highlights the societal consequences of weak service delivery, including rising poverty, child neglect, and vulnerability among marginalized populations. The research recommends strengthening inter-agency collaboration, improving community engagement and advocacy, increasing government funding for welfare programs, and integrating social workers more effectively into policy-making and service delivery processes. The study concludes that empowering social workers and improving structural support systems are essential for responsive, equitable, and sustainable social welfare services. These findings contribute to policy discourse and practical strategies aimed at improving the social welfare framework in semi-urban Zimbabwean settings.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Social Work Participation

Social Welfare Service Delivery

Zvishavane Town Council

Supervisor

Mrs. Chigondo