Practice Paper

Word Limit: 2250 Worth: 50% Assessment task: Rural social work practice is a distinct field as the context for practice is vastly different to urban contexts and even with each other due to the diversity of rural areas. Imagine, you are a social worker working with a non- government organization in Australia providing mental health services in a town with population of 10,000-14,000, that is five hours drive from the closest city. You are also responsible to work with smaller towns close to the regional centre where you are located. Describe mental health issues faced by individuals, families and communities in a rural context. Examine implications of changes in the mental health policy for rural and remote areas. Formulate your practice framework (knowledge, values and skills) for delivering mental health services in the rural and remote community described above. What service delivery models/approaches would you use to serve this target population? What are the challenges you may face as a social worker in a rural community.