News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – In recognition of National Social Work Month, Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch issued the following statement, inviting New Brunswickers to join him in recognizing the important work done by social workers in the province:

Our social workers play a critical role in keeping vulnerable New Brunswickers safe, happy and healthy. The importance of the many tasks they juggle every day in service to the residents of our province has been particularly valued during the pandemic. Without social workers, our social services system would not run as well as it does. That is worth recognizing year-round, not just during the month of March.

With the assistance of nearly 700 social workers, the Department of Social Development is able to fulfil its important mandate and provide services to thousands of New Brunswickers every month. The province’s dedicated social workers help New Brunswickers by connecting them to the services, resources and opportunities they need, as well as aiding in the development and improvement of social policy.

The province’s social workers are responsible for many duties, including investigating cases of child abuse, neglect and family violence; facilitating family group conferences; recruiting foster parents; supervising the placement of children in temporary or permanent care of the province; facilitating adoption placements; contributing to the care and treatment of seniors and those with disabilities; and social rehabilitation of young or adult offenders.

Our social workers have shown us, time and time again, just how essential they are. On behalf of all New Brunswickers and all my colleagues in the provincial government, I want to thank each of our social workers for the great work they accomplish every day.