social work

American  

noun

1. organized work directed toward the betterment of social conditions in the community, as by seeking to improve the condition of people in poverty, to promote the welfare of children, etc.

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social work British  

noun

1. any of various social services designed to alleviate the conditions of the poor and aged and to increase the welfare of children

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Other Word Forms

• social worker noun

Etymology

Origin of social work

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Katie Graden-Tyson, a social work assistant from Belfast, said she views medication as a last resort but is struggling to cope without support.

From BBC

She then did a social work degree and this summer completed a  scholarship programme for clinical medicine at the University of Oxford.

From BBC

They also expressed doubts about two candidates proposed to chair the inquiry because one had a background in social work and the other as a senior police officer - two professions facing questions about trust.

From BBC

A spokesperson for North Lanarkshire Council said its social work team was "committed to developing their relationship with the family so they can work together to provide the best possible service".

From BBC

The British Association of Social Workers said the social work sector is "under considerable strain", with the highest level of referrals to children's social services in a decade and a depleted workforce.

From BBC