Question Five a). Discuss the various Social welfare types and provide a critique for each type (10 marks) b). In detail.discuss the skills required by social workers to navigate their work (10 marks) Vision: Nurture and Transform for the World Mission:To Contribute to the World through Education,Research.Training, Consultanc Innovation.Outreach and Collaboration Laikipia University is ISO 9001:2015 and ISO/IEC 27001 :2013 Certified Page 2 of 2 KEBS

**a) Social Welfare Types and Critique:**<br /><br />Several typologies exist for categorizing social welfare. One common approach distinguishes between **universal** and **selective** programs. Another differentiates based on the **type of benefit** provided, such as cash assistance, in-kind benefits, or services. A third focuses on the **target population**, like programs for children, the elderly, or people with disabilities. For this answer, we'll use a combination of these approaches, focusing on common types and their critiques:<br /><br />* **Cash Assistance (e.g., Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - TANF):** Provides direct financial support to eligible individuals or families.<br /> * **Critique:** While offering immediate financial relief, cash assistance can be criticized for potentially disincentivizing work, creating dependency, or being insufficient to address underlying issues like lack of education or job skills. Furthermore, eligibility requirements can be complex and burdensome.<br /><br />* **In-Kind Benefits (e.g., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - SNAP, housing vouchers):** Provides goods or services directly, rather than cash.<br /> * **Critique:** While addressing specific needs like food or housing, in-kind benefits can restrict choice and may not be as adaptable to individual circumstances as cash assistance. There can also be stigma associated with using these programs.<br /><br />* **Social Insurance (e.g., Social Security, Medicare):** Programs funded through payroll taxes that provide benefits to eligible individuals based on contributions, not need.<br /> * **Critique:** While generally popular and providing a safety net, social insurance programs face long-term funding challenges due to demographic shifts and rising healthcare costs. Benefit levels may not be adequate for all recipients, and access can be tied to employment history, potentially disadvantaging certain groups.<br /><br />* **Social Services (e.g., child protective services, mental health counseling):** Provide professional support and intervention to address specific social problems.<br /> * **Critique:** Access to quality social services can be unevenly distributed, with waiting lists and variations in service quality. Funding limitations can restrict the availability and scope of services. Furthermore, effectiveness can be difficult to measure, and interventions may not always achieve desired outcomes.<br /><br /><br />**b) Essential Skills for Social Workers:**<br /><br />Social work requires a diverse skill set to effectively navigate complex situations and support individuals, families, and communities. Key skills include:<br /><br />* **Communication:** Active listening, clear and empathetic communication, both verbal and written, are crucial for building rapport, understanding client needs, and advocating for their rights.<br /><br />* **Interpersonal Skills:** Building trust, establishing professional boundaries, and demonstrating empathy and cultural sensitivity are essential for engaging with clients from diverse backgrounds and fostering positive relationships.<br /><br />* **Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:** Analyzing situations, identifying root causes of problems, and developing effective intervention strategies require strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.<br /><br />* **Assessment and Case Management:** Gathering information, assessing client needs and risks, developing care plans, and coordinating services are fundamental skills for effective case management.<br /><br />* **Advocacy and Resource Mobilization:** Navigating complex systems, connecting clients with appropriate resources, and advocating for policy changes that benefit vulnerable populations are vital aspects of social work practice.<br /><br />* **Cultural Competence:** Understanding and respecting the cultural values, beliefs, and practices of diverse client populations is crucial for providing culturally sensitive and appropriate services.<br /><br />* **Self-Care and Ethical Practice:** Social work can be emotionally demanding. Maintaining professional boundaries, practicing self-care, and adhering to ethical principles are essential for preventing burnout and ensuring responsible practice.<br /><br /><br />These skills are interconnected and essential for social workers to effectively navigate the challenges and complexities of their profession and fulfill their mission of helping others.<br />