Support and Aid to Families Electronically (SAFE): Addressing Intersecting Academic and Community Needs

ABSTRACT

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools from elementary to post-secondary suddenly shifted to remote learning, placing a heavy burden on parents and caregivers. Likewise, social work practicum placements pivoted to remote learning, compounding existing difficulties securing practicum opportunities. This article describes a response to these challenges. The Support and Aid to Families Electronically (SAFE) practicum pilot program was developed through a community-university partnership between the King’s University College at Western University’s School of Social Work and the Thames Valley District School Board. SAFE addresses parental stress and mental health through free and immediate online counselling, while providing stable remote practicum placements. SAFE provides a model for increasing practicum opportunities while simultaneously supporting the needs of underserviced communities.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jane E. Sanders

Jane E. Sanders is Assistant Professor at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Hazel Antia is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Esther Bernal is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Jessica Landon is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Andrew James Reed is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Ariel A. Seale is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Hayley Sullivan is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Emma Sutton is a Registered Social Worker and Research Assistant at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Mary Kay Arundel is Field Education Coordinator at King’s University College at Western University Canada. Rick Csiernik is a Professor at King’s University College at Western University Canada.