Experiences of social workers in primary care in Ireland

This article presents the findings of research conducted with social workers in primary health
care teams in Ireland. Data from questionnaires and from a focus group were analysed. The
findings draw attention to the nature of the role of the primary care social worker, including
both the satisfying and challenging aspects of this role. It was evident that the participants
liked the generic nature of their role and the fact that they worked with non-mandated clients.
However, they encountered challenges related to resources, management structures and
interdisciplinary work. The findings shed light on an area of social work that has been underresearched.