The role of social work practitioners and human service professionals in long-term disaster recovery after the 2016 Alberta wildfires in Canada

Abstract

The 2016 Alberta wildfires resulted in widespread destruction of property and displacement of residents. Research aimed to identify the roles and responsibilities of social work practitioners and human service professionals in long-term disaster recovery. This article presents the findings from interviews, focus groups, and a survey with a total of 140 participants in Alberta, Canada. Implications for disaster social work planning, and response and recovery efforts in Canada and internationally, will inform the development of programs and policies to support and make visible the contribution of social workers and human service professionals in long-term disaster recovery.