City council has proclaimed March 15 to 21, 2026, as Social Work Week, recognizing the contributions of social workers in the community and across the province.

The proclamation was presented during a recent council meeting, with representatives from the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers in attendance.

Recognizing the profession

Karla Rempel, local branch chair, and past chair Corliss Schaan spoke to council about the role social workers play in supporting individuals, families and communities.

Karla Rempel and Corliss Schaan presenting together are Swift Current city council. Karla Rempel and Corliss Schaan presenting together are Swift Current city council. 

Social Work Week coincides with National Social Work Month, recognized by the Canadian Association of Social Workers. This year also marks the organization’s 100th anniversary.

The 2026 theme is “Rooted in relationship, leading through change.”

Wide-ranging impact

Speakers highlighted the broad scope of the profession, which includes work in health care, education, justice and community services.

Social workers assist people facing challenges such as mental health crises, substance use, poverty and family issues, while also helping connect them to appropriate supports.

Rempel outlined her work with the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s Police and Crisis Team, a partnership with RCMP that provides real-time response to mental health and substance use crises.

Growing need for services

Schaan told council there are more than 70 registered social workers serving southwest Saskatchewan, but demand for services continues to grow.

“I would say that there is always room for more,” she said, noting social and economic changes have increased the need for support in multiple sectors.

The Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers, established in 1962, now has more than 2,000 members across the province.

Local events planned

Social Work Week is marked by events both locally and provincially, including networking opportunities and professional webinars.

Rempel thanked the city for recognizing the profession through the proclamation.