Workplace support groups for people living with HIV and AIDS : challenges faced by social workers rendering occupational social work services

Abstract

The study aimed to develop an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by social workers rendering Occupational Social Work (OSW) services, particularly in establishing and maintaining workplace support groups for employees living with HIV and AIDS. The study used a qualitative research approach, aided by exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design. Data was collected from eight participants with semi-structured interviews and was analyzed by applying eight steps for data analysis as proposed by Tesch, cited in Creswell (2003:191). Data verification was done by applying Guba’s model (in Krefting, 1991). The themes, which emerged from the interviews, were: the recruitment of members in workplace support groups and the challenges faced by social workers rendering OSW services. The findings indicate that, critical as their roles may be, social workers experience numerous challenges when providing workplace HIV and AIDS support groups. These include HIV and AIDS disclosure, management, organisational and logistical challenges