Social Workers of the World Unite!

Continuing my varied experiences here on the SW theme, I have visited four SWs in their schools, the Public service trade union, the Association for Disabled Palestinians, the mental health centre, the Defence for Children International and had a meeting with the Palestine Union of SWs and Psychologists to foster links internally and with the International Federation of SW.

 

Today I went to a Child Abuse and Protection seminar based on some research into traing needs for social and health care proffesionals.  It took place jointly by the University and UNWRA United Nations Refugee Relief who are very involved in providing services for all the refugees in all the refugee camps here.  The seminar took place in ramallah the administrative capital of Palestine.  I was presented and gave a brief talk about child protection in UK.  It was interesting to hear the discussion about how to develop child protection services.  The main issues were about roles and responsibilities, coordinating services, training, legislative framework, engaging families, stigma of SW, definition of abuse and safety of SWs in visiting families with no police back up (many areas are under Israeli military rule and Palelestine police unable to operate).  So very similar to issues in UK albeit within a different setting.

I have now been invited to meet with a Government minister so hope to find my way there tomorrow on my own (today I went with Dr Huda who was attending).  Dr Huda works in a UNWRA medical centre and in a mental health clinic in her spare time.

Preparing to see the minister:

I though perhaps a shower and clean clothes would be a good idea.  Guess what another flood and cold shower as the fuse went again!  I manage dto get to the fuse box and avoid electrocuting myself in the dark as I was of course all wet!  I’m really not cut out for domestic chores! 

Today it rained again after many lovely sunny days.  Preparing me for my return to England perhaps.  Only for days now before I return and reflecting a bit on my visit I think the main observation I have that is different is the extent of the occupation.  Not only the wall and checkpoints but the extent of the Israeli control over the Palestinians in every area and the size of the settlements – large towns now extending further and further.

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