Code of Ethics


(The version of the Code below is a summary. For a complete printed version of the Code, please Click Here and look for the link to "NSASW Code of Ethics")

Philosophy

The profession of social work is founded on humanitarian and egalitarian ideals. Social workers believe in the intrinsic worth and dignity of every human being and are committed to the values of acceptance, self-determination and respect of individuality. They believe in the obligation of all people, individually and collectively, to provide resources, services and opportunities for the overall benefit of humanity. The culture of individuals, families, groups, communities and nations has to be respected without prejudice.

Social workers are dedicated to the welfare and self-realization of human beings; to the development and disciplined use of scientific knowledge regarding human and societal behaviours; to the development of resources to meet individual, group, national and international needs and aspirations; and to the achievement of social justice for all.

Ethical Duties and Obligations
  1. A social worker shall maintain the best interest of the client as the primary professional obligation.
  2. A social worker shall carry out her or his professional duties and obligations with integrity and objectivity.
  3. A social worker shall have and maintain competence in the provision of social work services to a client.
  4. A social worker shall not exploit the relationship with a client for personal benefit, gain or gratification.
  5. A social worker shall protect the confidentiality of all information acquired from the client or others regarding the client and the client's family during the professional relationship unless:
    a) the client authorizes in writing the release of specified information,
    b) the information is released under the authority of a statute or an order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or
    c) otherwise authorized by this Code.
  6. A social worker who engages in another profession, occupation, affiliation or calling shall not allow these outside interests to affect the social work relationship with the client.
  7. A social worker in private practice shall not conduct the business of provision of social work services for a fee in a manner that discredits the profession or diminishes the public's trust in the profession.
Ethical Responsibilities
  1. A social worker shall advocate for workplace conditions and policies that are consistent with the Code.
  2. A social worker shall promote excellence in the social work profession.
  3. A social worker shall advocate change
    a) in the best interest of the client, and
    b) for the overall benefit of society, the environment and the global community.

Adopted from the Canadian Association of Social Workers - Social Work Code of Ethics (1994). Contact the NSASW office for a complete copy of the 1994 Code.