Social Work Participation in Service-Oriented Social Assistance in China: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Service-oriented social assistance (SSA) is a demand-driven approach providing vulnerable populations with social services to prevent social exclusion. This study aimed to systematically review social work participation in SSA in China. We utilized the scoping review method to synthesize empirical studies showcasing SSA practices implemented in China published in either the Chinese or English language in the CNKI and Web of Science databases until July 2023. In total, 623 English and 336 Chinese studies were retrieved and screened, resulting in 4 studies being included in this review. Our findings reveal that social workers participated in SSA mostly led by the government and played an essential profession-led role in providing disaster assistance or comprehensive services in residential care. The clients ranged from individuals in absolute poverty to relative poverty, and their potential continued to be stimulated. Despite limitations, this scoping review research informs future social work participation in SSA practices in China.