Social Work Code of Ethics
National Association of Social Workers, Code of Ethics, Standard 6.01
According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics, Standard 6.01 on Social Welfare emphasizes social workers' responsibility to promote society’s general well-being and advocate for the fulfillment of basic needs, especially for marginalized and disadvantaged communities. For example, social workers are encouraged to address social justice issues from the local to the global level, promoting social, economic, political, and cultural conditions that uphold these values (National Association of Social Workers, 2021, 6.01).
This advocacy can take many forms, including engaging in public discussions, lobbying for legislative changes, or working alongside policymakers to create a fairer, more equitable world. Social workers also promote respect for cultural and ethnic diversity and work actively to prevent and eliminate discrimination, exploitation, and domination against individuals and groups (Racovita, L., 2023, January 3, 43:03).
I believe standard 6.01 Social Welfare, is important to social policy because social workers become change agents in challenging societal issues, such as advocating for policies that reduce discrimination and increase equity within our society. We as future social workers can help build our communities where people of all backgrounds can feel respected and empowered. Standard 6.01 changes the focus of social work beyond individual support, encouraging broader, systemic change through policies that reflect the values of social justice and advancing well-being for all.
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