Social workers’ experience working with refugees during Covid-19: Case of Austria

Abstract

Global pandemic, Covid-19, started at the end of 2019 and until today we are facing the consequences of it on a daily basis. The Covid-19 virus has made the situation more difficult for both social workers and refugees and the ignorance has been more visible both theoretically and practically. On the other hand, professional activities of social workers were significantly influenced during Covid – 19. It made their job harder and more challenging than before. Research goal – To disclose Austrian social workers ‘experience working with refugees during Covid – 19. Research strategy - qualitative research. The study was conducted in November - December of 2021 among social workers in Austria. Data collection method - semi-structured interview (8 social workers). Data analysis method - content analysis method. Main findings - the restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated the isolation and vulnerability of refugees and created confusion. During the Covid -19 pandemic, social workers working with refugees faced the following challenges - significant alterations in routine of social workers and struggling to preserve and keep clients.