As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, it is important that registered social workers remain current with developing public health information, recommendations and orders.

Governments at all levels and Canada’s public health experts are strongly encouraging the use of widespread social distancing.

The safety of social workers, their clients and the general public is of utmost importance. If social workers are around others, they should ensure that they are following the health and safety protocols recommended by government and public health authorities.

Social workers who have questions about how to provide services safely should speak to their employer or contact public health authorities. It is recommended to regularly seek current information regarding the COVID-19 public health situation and current health safeguarding actions.

Websites providing COVID-19 information include:

• BC Ministry of Health:  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/ministries/health
• BC Centre for Disease Control: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-professionals/clinical-resources/covid-19-care
• Public Health Agency of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks.html?topic=tilelink
• World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1

Social workers engaging in electronic social work services should thoroughly review the BCCSW Technology Standards of Practice, the BCCSW Standards of Practice and applicable privacy legislation. Social workers should be confident that they can practice competently and in accordance with the best interests of their clients.

Social workers using, or considering the use of, electronic social work services should review the British Columbia College of Social Workers Technology Standards of Practice found at this link:

• https://bccsw.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/BCCSW-Technology-Standards.pdf

The BC Provincial Health Services Authority has developed a COVID-19 Virtual Health Toolkit found at this link:

• http://www.phsa.ca/health-professionals/professional-resources/office-of-virtual-health/covid-19-virtual-health-toolkit

Note that regulatory requirements vary across provinces, states and countries. Registered social workers, who reside in British Columbia and provide services to clients in other jurisdictions, are responsible for knowing the registration requirements where the client resides. Many jurisdictions require social workers to be registered within that jurisdiction to provide services and may require different levels of registration depending on the nature of the social work practice. Further information can be obtained by contacting the appropriate regulatory agency.