From training to practice gap: Reflecting on barriers to implementing community work in Zimbabwe

Community work is an appropriate social work intervention for addressing social ills in Zimbabwe. Despite the relevance of community work for addressing complex social issues, social workers encounter substantial institutional and structural obstacles in its implementation. This note explored the barriers that social workers face in implementing community work. The study utilised a reflective practice approach, drawing from the author’s experience in community work practice in Zimbabwe. The author found that social workers face barriers in implementing community work such as resource constraints, high caseloads and policy and institutional focus. Addressing these barriers is essential for strengthening community work practice.