In the course of their practice, College registrants often face challenging ethical dilemmas which require them to consider the Standards of Practice, applicable legislation, relevant practice resources and a number of other factors.
The College has developed an ethical decision-making tool named ETHICS→A in order to assist registrants in considering the issues and applying their professional judgment in particular scenarios. The Tool supports ethical and professional practice by providing a process for registrants to follow.
The ETHICS→A Tool can be used in clinical and non-clinical, direct and indirect practice. It can be used informally to assist registrants in organizing their thoughts and supporting their decision making, inserted in the social work or social service work record, if appropriate, or used as a documentation tool in the workplace. The Tool reflects evidence-based practices for ethical decision making and is applicable to the specific environment and context for social workers and social service workers in Ontario.
Note: The ETHICS→A Tool is based on the decision-making model published in the following academic journal citation: Fossen, C., Anderson-Meger, J., & Daehn Zellmer, D. (2014) “Infusing a new ethical decision making model throughout a BSW curriculum”. Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 11(1).66-81. www.JSWVE.org.
Note: To use the fillable digital form, you will first need to download the form to your computer.
Watch the College’s introductory video on the ETHICS→A Tool
For further information, please contact the Professional Practice Department at practice@ocswssw.org.