Methodological support for the integration of the concept of spiritual sensitivity into the practice of social workers

Abstract

AIM: This article deals with the integration of the concept of spiritual sensitivity into the practice of social workers. The aim of the article is to present a tool for methodological support of social workers in the Czech Republic to better integrate the concept of spiritual sensitivity into practice.METHODS. Apractice guidelines was constructed on the basis of existing theoretical knowledge and research. The development of the practice guidelines included feedback from social workers on a pilot version of the material (N=133).RESULTS: The majority of social workers involved in the feedback process positively evaluated the contribution of the practice guidelines to the integration of spiritual sensitivity into daily practice. CONCLUSION. Despite the fact that the current form of the practice guidelines has the quality of a prototype that will need to be further developed, it could increase the effectiveness of social workers' practice and improve client care by enabling the systematic and ethical integration of spiritual sensitivity into their practice. Moreover, it may provide inspiration for other authors, practitioners and researchers to develop their own methodological support tools and explore the conditions of their effectiveness. A more holistic perspective of working with clients, and a higher chance of their participation and empowerment are benefits that profit the clients themselves in the first place, but may ultimately contribute to the profession's greater credibility in society.