Social Workers' Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Social Work Practice in Schools: A Scoping Review

The aim of this scoping review was to establish the breadth of the academic literature regarding the barriers and facilitators to social work practice in schools as perceived by School Social Workers (SSWs). Following the PRISMA-ScR Scoping Review Framework, 42 articles were identified as meeting the inclusion criteria. Five interrelated themes related to the barriers and facilitators to SSW practice were identified: (1) Inadequacy of service delivery infrastructure; (2) SSWs' role ambiguities and expectations; (3) SSWs' competency, knowledge and support; (4) School climate and context; and (5) Cultivating relationships and engagement. This scoping review found that social workers perceive far greater barriers than facilitators when delivering services in school settings, with limited evidence related to the facilitators that enhance School Social Work (SSW) practice. Further research regarding the facilitators of SSW practice is needed, specifically in countries where research on this topic is emergent. This scoping review was completed to provide an overview of the existing social work research regarding the barriers and facilitators to social work practice in schools from the perspectives of SSWs. SSWs are committed to supporting students to thrive and reach their full potential while at school, by providing mental health and well-being support to enhance student learning, relieve distress and reduce barriers and inequities. However, SSWs experience numerous challenges that impact their ability to support students and schools. The study of the barriers and facilitators to SSW practice is important as it highlights these challenges and identifies the factors that advance and enable effective SSW practice. This scoping review found that the current research predominantly focuses on the barriers to SSW practice, and there is a paucity of information regarding what facilitates effective SSW practice. In addition, the current research is dominated by studies completed in the USA. As a result, further research regarding the facilitators to SSW practice is recommended, specifically in countries where research is emerging outside of the USA.