Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics serves as the foundation for ethical social work practice and guides social workers as they act in good faith and with a genuine desire to make sound judgements. Ethical practice is at the core of each decision social workers make, whether in direct, front line practice or in the creation of policies and procedures in support of those that we work with. On January 8, 2024, the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) released a new and updated Code of Ethics. The Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers (SASW) adopts this new Code of Ethics as the guiding document for practice in our province.
“Consisting of seven values, the Code was developed through the lens of the Truth and Reconciliation principles, with a new value highlighting the profession’s commitment to uphold the rights of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Peoples and by acknowledging Indigenous world views in their practice with Indigenous people.
The social work profession is grounded in social justice. The Code reflects this as well as addressing obligations to ensure services are offered in a manner that respects the service users’ ethnicity, national origin, age, economic status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, culture, varying abilities, language, religion, values and beliefs.” – CASW press release January 8, 2024
The new Code of Ethics also takes into account updated developments in practice as well as an increased use of technology within social work. As with previous Codes, the current additions and revisions were undertaken with consultation with key stakeholders and experts from across Canada.
The Code of Ethics defines the values essential to the practice of Social Work. These values are:
- Value 1: Respecting Dignity and Worth of All People
- Value 2: Promoting Social Justice
- Value 3: Pursuing Truth and Reconciliation
- Value 4: Valuing Human Relationships
- Value 5: Preserving Integrity in Professional Practice
- Value 6: Maintaining Privacy and Confidentiality
- Value 7: Providing Competent Professional Services.
As with the previous Code of Ethics, each province and territory continues to be responsible for regulating the professional conduct of Social Workers to ensure the protection of the public. The Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers adopts the CASW Code of Ethics (2024) and is using it as a basis for evaluating professional conduct. In addition, social workers in Saskatchewan are responsible to follow the Standards of Practice for Registered Social Workers in Saskatchewan