Spring 2020

Further Considerations as Province Implements Stage 1 of its Framework for Reopening

The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (the College) anticipates that the Ontario Government’s recent announcement regarding the first stage in Ontario’s reopening framework may prompt questions from members regarding their return to practice. The Government’s announcement included a detailed list of stage 1 openings which can be found here. Members and other stakeholders can also learn more about stage 1 of the Government’s framework here. The College previously provided members with…

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Recent Practice Notes: Administration of Naloxone

The College recently published Practice Notes: Administration of Naloxone, recognizing that social workers and social service workers play an integral role in supporting clients who live with mental health and substance use issues. As a result of the opioid crisis, members may increasingly find themselves in practice situations in which the administration of Naloxone by inhalation or injection is expected as part of their role. The complex issues around the administration of Naloxone highlight the…

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Understanding Ontario’s Missing Persons Act

As a result of Ontario’s Missing Persons Act,  police officers are now able to request confidential client information if they believe that it will assist in finding a missing person. The Missing Persons Act, which came into effect on July 1, 2019, defines a missing person as someone in both of the following circumstances. The person’s whereabouts are unknown and: the person has not been in contact with people who would likely be in contact…

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Important Update Regarding AMED 2020

The College’s Annual Meeting and Education Day (AMED) is a popular event for members and staff alike. Part of the College’s Glenda McDonald Educational Series, AMED features educational activities and provides registered social workers and registered social service workers with an opportunity to network and learn more about the College’s priorities and accomplishments. With this in mind, we are disappointed to announce that this year’s AMED has been postponed and will be replaced with a scaled-down…

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What You Need to Know About High-Priority Applications

We understand that during these challenging times, there remains an ongoing need for applicants to register with the College, as well as a desire for an expedited process to put individuals in a position to contribute during the current COVID-19 pandemic. In the context of the current pandemic, the College has adapted its registration processes where possible, keeping in mind that government approval is needed to change the current requirements of the Registration Regulation. As…

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2020 Council Elections in Electoral District No. 3

ELECTION DATE POSTPONED TO JULY 23, 2020 In response to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the College has postponed the date of the election for both of the membership categories of social work and social service work to July 23, 2020. Though the College has resumed many regulatory operations remotely, our physical office remains closed and we are not in a position to hold the election as previously scheduled. The postponement of the…

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