Recent News

OASW Recognizes Jacqueline Davis with the 2021 School Social Work Achievement Award (11/16/2021)
	OASW and its School Social Work Advisory Group are pleased to recognize Jacqueline Davis, MSW, RSW with the 2021 School Social Work Achievement Award.

OASW in the Media: Business leaders must ensure Canadian workers have access to vital mental health (10/10/2021)
	On World Mental Health Day and during Healthy Workplace Month, Dr. Deepy Sur, OASW CEO, shared with Toronto Star readers why the time has never been more critical to attend to employee mental health.

OASW Affirms World Mental Health Day and Commits to Advancing Mental Health for All (10/8/2021)
	On World Mental Health Day, OASW calls for increased access and investments in mental health care. Social work is integral to the delivery of a shared vision for mental health care now and in the years to come.

OASW Observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Honours Orange Shirt Day (9/30/2021)
	On Orange Shirt Day and Canada's first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, OASW wishes to recognize, raise awareness and support action to address the effects and ongoing legacy of residential schools.

OASW Acknowledges Canada’s History of Slavery and Celebrates Emancipation Day (7/30/2021)
	On Emancipation Day, OASW joins in the celebration of the incredible strength of Black Canadians. We also reflect upon our collective history of enslavement and our responsibility to eliminate anti-Black racism.

Updated: OASW Mourns Children Lost to Residential Schools (6/25/2021)
	We are incredibly saddened to learn of the confirmation of remains that have been found on the grounds of several former residential schools. OASW honours survivors, and commits to addressing the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous Peoples.

OASW Celebrates Pride Month and Acknowledges an Ongoing Commitment to the 2SLGBTQ+ Community (6/24/2021)
	OASW is proud to stand in solidarity with and recognize how essential our 2SLGBTQ+ social workers are to the well-being of our communities and our profession across the province.

OASW Acknowledges National Indigenous Peoples Day and National Indigenous History Month (6/21/2021)
	OASW honours National Indigenous Peoples Day and National Indigenous History Month. Today and throughout June, we celebrate the rich heritage and diverse cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis People.

OASW Statement on Mass Killings in London, Ontario (6/8/2021)
	The targeted attack on members of the Muslim community in London Ontario has left tragedy, devastation, and disbelief. The act of terror is condemned and OASW stands against Islamophobia and all other forms of racism and hate violence.

OASW Mourns Children Lost to Residential Schools (5/31/2021)
	We are incredibly saddened to learn of the 215 children whose remains were found on the grounds of the former residential school in Kamloops. OASW honours survivors, and commits to addressing the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous Peoples.

OASW Honours Four Outstanding Social Workers with 2020 and 2021 Awards (5/14/2021)
	OASW is honoured to have recognized four outstanding social workers with 2020 and 2021 awards at our recent Annual General Meeting. Learn more.

COVID-19 Resources (5/5/2021)
	As the current situation continues to unfold related to COVID-19, OASW is committed to providing you with timely and relevant information on this topic, particularly when this information is connected to social work practice and those we serve.

OASW Report Calls for Key Actions to Increase Access to Employee Mental Health Benefits (5/5/2021)
	OASW’s new report highlights the important role of RSWs in increasing access to employee mental health supports and provides two key recommendations on how best to meet the growing mental health needs of employees.

OASW Response to the 2021 Ontario Budget (3/25/2021)
	The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) recognizes and appreciates the Government of Ontario’s focus and investments made in the 2021 Budget to protect the health of Ontarians and our province’s economy in the wake of COVID-19.

OASW Statement on Anti-Asian Racism (3/23/2021)
	On March 16, 2021, an extreme act of violence occurred in Atlanta that took the lives of eight victims, including six Asian women. OASW recognizes this has been an extremely traumatic and devastating occurrence and expresses unequivocal support for t

OASW Honours National Day of Observance for COVID-19 (3/11/2021)
	Today (March 11), marks Canada’s National Day of Observance, a time to honour those whose lives were lost to COVID-19 and share our deep gratitude for all healthcare & essential workers, including social workers, who have cared for us this past year.

OASW In the Media: Leslie Roberts Interviews Dr. Deepy Sur on Mental Health Realities (3/9/2021)
	Dr. Deepy Sur, OASW CEO, was pleased to speak with Leslie Roberts of 580 CFRA Ottawa at Work on March 9th, 2021, to discuss the recent Leger poll conducted by OASW, which uncovers mental health realities, virtual counselling attitudes and barriers to

OASW In the Media: Global News Interviews Dr. Deepy Sur on Essential Role of Social Workers (3/3/2021)
	Dr. Deepy Sur, OASW CEO, was pleased to sit down with Liem Vu of Global News Toronto on March 3rd, 2021, to discuss the essential contribution of Ontario’s social workers before, during and after COVID-19. It is important that we remind Ontarians tha

OASW Press Release Poll Uncovers Mental Health Realities, Virtual Counselling Attitudes and Barrier (3/1/2021)
	OASW distributed a press release with the goal of providing the media with some timely information on mental health, including insights on barriers to access. The results are based on an online poll of 1,000 Ontarians between February 12-14, 2021, us

OASW Spring 2021 Pre-Budget Submission (2/24/2021)
	OASW made a written and oral submission focused on improving the socioeconomic and mental health outcomes of Ontarians as the province plans for the road to recovery.

OASW Acknowledges and Celebrates Black History Month (2/5/2021)
	OASW joins Ontarians across the province to honour the legacy and contributions of Black Canadians.

OASW Rejoins the Canadian Association of Social Workers (1/19/2021)
	We are very pleased to announce that our work to elevate our voice includes rejoining the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) as a federation partner effective April 1, 2021.

Submission to Ontario’s Long-Term Care COVID-19 Commission (12/23/2020)
	As a part of our ongoing work to advocate for high-quality mental health care for residents of long-term care in Ontario, OASW made a submission to Ontario's Long-Term Care COVID-19 Commission.

OASW 2020 Fall Pre-Budget Submission (10/23/2020)
	OASW believes that a specific focus must be placed on ensuring equitable opportunities for all Ontarians impacted by the pandemic.

OASW Submission on Staffing in Long-Term Care (7/10/2020)
	OASW was pleased to recently submit recommendations to the Ministry of Long-Term Care’s Staffing Study Advisory Group on a model for staffing to best ensure high-quality care for residents of long-term care homes.

Final Decision Made by Government on Pandemic Pay (6/2/2020)
	The Ministry of Health sent out correspondence on this issue on May 27, 2020, stating that the government will not be expanding pandemic pay beyond those now deemed eligible.

New & Innovative Structure to Support Local Member Engagement (5/22/2020)
	We are so pleased to announce an exciting and innovative new structure to better support local member engagement across Ontario. This transformation was officially shared today as part of our Annual General Meeting

Take Action! Advocate for Social Work Inclusion in Pandemic Pay Increase (4/30/2020)
	OASW was disappointed to see that social workers on the frontline were excluded in eligible workplaces except for adult correctional facilities and youth justice facilities.

OASW Engaging Government on Pandemic Pay for Front-Line Social Workers (4/29/2020)
	On April 25, 2020, the Government of Ontario announced that it would be providing additional support for frontline workers fighting COVID-19...

Ontario Association of Social Workers and Think Research partner to increase access to mental health (4/27/2020)
	The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW), the voice of social work in Ontario, is pleased to announce an exciting partnership with Think Research, a developer of virtual care technology and clinical treatment protocols, to jointly respond to

COVID-19: Response Measures & Practices (3/13/2020)
	COVID-19 Reponse: In consideration of the global situation with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), OASW continues to monitor the situation.

OASW Applauds Release of New Mental Health and Addictions Plan (3/3/2020)
	- The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW), the voice of social workers in Ontario, welcomes the release of the government’s new mental health and addictions plan Roadmap to Wellness: A Plan to Build Ontario’s Mental Health and Addictions

Celebrating YOU! Happy Social Work Week (3/2/2020)
	Happy Social Work Week 2020! This year’s theme “Social Workers: Leading Positive Change Across Systems and Settings” signals the importance of the work you do every day across the province.

OASW Pre-Budget Submission to Ontario Government (2/13/2020)
	In preparation for the 2020 Budget, the Government of Ontario invites submissions from individuals and organizations to provide input on spending for the year.

OASW Provincial Office Move (1/29/2020)
	OASW has set out on a mission to cultivate professional identity and lead the future of our profession. Organizational and asset review have been part of our transformation journey.

Social Workers Applaud Province's Investments in School Mental Health (10/10/2019)
	The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) applauds the province for its investment of nearly $40 million towards providing front line services to advance student mental health.

Letter to the Editor: Globe and Mail (9/17/2019)
	The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) read today’s news of UHN’s new affordable housing initiative with interest and applauds all of the groups involved.

OASW Welcomes Government’s Commitment to Needs-Based Autism Program (7/29/2019)
	OASW is applauding the government for moving forward on a needs-based approach for the Ontario Autism Program to ensure children, youth and their families get the supports they need.

OASW Applauds Government’s Investment in Shelter Expansion to Protect Vulnerable Women and Children (7/15/2019)
	Ontario Association of Social Workers Applauds Government’s Investment in Shelter Expansion to Protect Vulnerable Women and Children...

OASW's New Chief Executive Officer (6/4/2019)
	The Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Deepy Sur as the organization's next Chief Executive Officer.

Article published in Human Resources Director (HRD) Magazine (5/15/2019)
	"By including access to registered social workers in employer group benefit plans, HR can provide the kind of comprehensive, professional mental health care all employees deserve"

OASW's Response to 2019 Ontario Budget (4/12/2019)
	“We know that investments in mental health and addiction are imperative to improving the health and well-being of over 2 million Ontarians who visit their doctor annually for these concerns.”

Inspirational Leaders Award 2019 (4/3/2019)
	Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) is excited to announce the recipients of the Inspirational Leader Award 2019 in celebration of Social Work Week (March 4 - 10)

Les Prix de leadership inspirant de l’ATTSO 2019 (3/4/2019)
	L'Association des travailleuses et travailleurs sociaux de l'Ontario (ATTSO) est ravie d'annoncer les lauréats des Prix de leadership inspirant 2019 en célébration de la Semaine du travail social (4 au 10 mars)

OASW Is Hiring a New CEO (2/28/2019)
	This is a full-time permanent position. Posting deadline: March 27, 2019

Response to the 2019 Pre-Budget Consultations (2/7/2019)
	This year, OASW made both an oral and written submission in response to the Honourable Minister Victor Fedeli’s invitation to participate in 2019 Pre-Budget Consultation. When planning for the 2019 Budget, we recommended that government:

First Report from the Premier's Council on Improving Healthcare and Ending Hallway Medicine (2/1/2019)
	"We applaud the Premier's Council for its first report, which identifies the barriers within Ontario's health care system that lead to hallway health care and stand in the way of people getting the care they need," JMD, CEO

OASW Conference Poster Award Winners! (4/3/2019)
	At the November 2018 conference, over 25 posters were featured, highlighting innovative clinical interventions, community programs, research and approaches in education, program and policy development, relevant to social work practice

OASW Mental Health Recommendations (1/9/2019)
	The Government of Ontario has committed $1.9 billion to support the mental health of Ontarians over the next 10 years. This is in addition to $1.9 billion in federal funding to do the same. In January, 2019, OASW submitted recommendations to the gove

OASW Responds to Newly Announced Social Assistance Plan (11/22/2018)
	While further increases in social assistance rates remain an essential part of helping break the cycle of poverty, OASW supports several new initiatives announced today by Minister MacLeod.

OASW Signs on to #SaveSexEd (8/9/2018)
	OASW has signed a petition by medical professionals & agencies to stop the repeal of the Ontario Human Development and Sexual Health curriculum.

OASW Statement & Action on Ending Immigration Detention Practices (6/28/2018)
	OASW has issued a formal statement as well as signed an open letter from healthcare providers in Canada urging the Canadian government to end immigration detention practices and suspend the Third Country Agreement.

Your letters: Social workers are vital to health care changes (6/8/2018)
	How Ontario’s next government could relieve overcrowded hospitals, June 3.

Our Votes & Voices Matter! - OASW 2018 Provincial Election Toolkit (4/17/2018)
	The provincial election is scheduled to take place on June 7, 2018 & policy decisions made by the next Provincial Parliament will have a direct impact on the social and financial health of Ontarians.

OASW’s Response to the 2018 Ontario Budget (3/28/2018)
	OASW applauds the Government of Ontario for prioritizing mental health and addictions services in the Budget for 2018, including the expansion of access to publicly funded structured psychotherapy, a key recommendation of OASW.

OASW Online Certificate Advanced Social Work Practice with Older Adults (3/9/2018)
	Registration Closed on January 7, 2018 Join the waitlist for the next course.

Children's Mental Health Ontario Launch Campaign (2/22/2018)
	Kids Mental Health Can't Wait

Potential New Virtual Group for Members in Health Care Settings (2/22/2018)
	New Virtual Group for Social Workers in Front-line Health Care, email [email protected] to join.

OASW Comments on the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (2/22/2018)
	Ontario has passed the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA).

What You Need To Know About Blizzard Driving (2/22/2018)
	Although beautiful, Canadian winters can be a real pain if you have to hit the road in snowy, blizzard-like conditions. Here are some practical precautions to take before, during, and after each winter drive this season.

OASW’s Response to the 2018 Pre-Budget Consultations (2/9/2018)
	This year, OASW made both an oral and written submission in response to the Honourable Minister Charles Sousa’s invitation to participate in a discussion on the 2018 Ontario Budget...

A Moment to Celebrate - Proclamation of the controlled act of psychotherapy (1/11/2018)
	This win comes with gravitas that will benefit the profession for years to come, formalizing our services and activities in a way that builds opportunities for the profession and benefits the public.

Working at the Intersections of the Elder Abuse and Violence against Women Sectors Interdisciplinary (12/6/2017)
	OASW participated in a day of learning and collaboration on November 21st, at the Working at the Intersections of the Elder Abuse and Violence against Women Sectors Interdisciplinary Forum.

Home Insurance Protects You Inside AND Outside Your Home... (11/15/2017)
	Liability Insurance Tags Along Wherever You Go...

Parenting Coordination Webinar Recording (11/15/2017)
	Parenting Coordination co-hosted by Family Dispute Resolution Institute of Ontario (FDRIO) free webinar recording now available.

Wilfrid Laurier University: 30 in 30 Award (10/19/2017)
	Congratulations to OASW President, Dr. Keith Adamson. A formal recognition ceremony took place on November 9, 2017 @ Wilfrid Laurier University.

OASW Welcomes a New Student Director! (10/19/2017)
	David Knezevic, an MSW student at King's University College (Western University, London), has been elected by acclamation to the position of OASW Student Director for a 2-year term.

Non-profit Law 101 - Free Legal Resources (9/19/2017)
	A brand new, free legal resource led by Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO-EJCO), can help non-profit groups and individuals.

New Member Benefit (9/19/2017)
	One-Stop Shopping for all your Insurance & Health Benefit Needs

NEW Partnership with Global Alliance (9/19/2017)
	OASW & the Global Alliance for Behavioural Health and Social Justice share a commitment to developing and promoting policies and practices to strengthen opportunities for persons with mental health and substance abuse disorders.

OASW Member Appreciation Event 2017 (9/19/2017)
	On Friday, November 3, 2017, OASW held its Members Appreciation Event. Lisa Taylor, President of Challenge Factory and the Centre for Career Innovation, highlighted five key trends that are shaping the future of Social Work.

OASW Responds to Toronto Sun Article (8/1/2017)
	We applaud your desire to shine a light on public interest stories including your recent article: "Social Workers failing Toronto's homeless", followed by the subsequent editorial on Toronto's response and offers to assist.

OASW Inspirational Leader Awards 2017 (3/9/2017)
	An annual feature of Social Work Week has been the identification of Inspirational Leaders that represent a positive role model to social workers and social work students and exemplify OASW's theme for Social Work Week March 6-12, 2017.

Social Work Week: March 6-12, 2017 (3/6/2017)
	Theme: "Social Workers. Real Expertise. Real Life. Real Impact."

Social Workers Applaud Tireless Champions of First Nations Children’s Human Rights (11/23/2016)
	OASW announces the inaugural recipients of OASW’s Champion of Social Change & Human Rights Award - Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director of the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada, lawyers Sarah Pentney & Daniel Poulin.

OASW 2016 Social Work Conference: Such a Success! (11/14/2016)
	We thank everyone who attended as presenters, exhibitors and/or participants on November 10-11, 2016.

Annual General Meeting 2016 – Such a Success! (5/12/2016)
	Guest Speaker: Linda Jackson Special Award Presented to Dr. Dan Andreae 100+ OASW members and guests attended this years Annual General Meeting.

OASW Inspirational Leader Awards (3/7/2016)
	Each year, two inspirational leaders from the profession in Ontario are profiled during Social Work Week.

OASW Membership Appreciation Event 2015: A Tremendous Success! (12/18/2015)
	On Friday, November 6, 2015, OASW held its second Appreciation Event @ the Courtyard Marriott in Toronto. The guest speaker Dr. Nasreen Khatri, talked about "Your Brain on Speed: How the Brain Responds to the Rush Hour of Life"

Professional Development Fund for Social Workers (6/25/2015)
	The Minister of Community & Social Services Helena Jaczek announced at our recent AGM: "A new $1 million has been established to provide training initiatives to registered social workers..."

OASW Virtual Groups May 2015 - Newly Launched (5/29/2015)
	Virtual Networking Group: Social Workers in the Northern Region Moderator: Allyson Shpirko

OASW Special Bulletin Re: Proclamation of Psychotherapy Act, 2007 (4/9/2015)
	Earlier this afternoon, most of you will have received an "E-Bulletin" from the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) informing you that the Psychotherapy Act, 2007 was proclaimed in law on April 1, 2015.

Group Benefits - Coverage of Social Work Services (3/10/2015)
	Employers benefit when the workforce is productive and healthy.

Video of Opening Keynote from 2014 Conference Now Available (3/10/2015)
	Dr. Cheryl Regehr's Opening Keynote Address at the 2014 OASW Provincial Conference,"Exposure to Stress and Trauma in Social Work Practice: Contributors, Consequences, and Mitigation", is now available online exclusively to OASW members.

2014 Conference Closing Keynote Video Now Available (2/26/2015)
	"Helping Those Who Help Nurture and Maintain Resilience", Dr. Michael Ungar's Closing Keynote Address at the 2014 OASW Provincial Conference, is now available online exclusively to OASW members.

Legal Issues Webcast Now Available, Exclusively to OASW Members (2/18/2015)
	Did you miss Robert Solomon's Workshop "Protect Yourself: Current Legal Issues for Social Workers"?

2015 Social Work Week Theme: Social Workers: Mobilizing Strengths in Individuals & Communities (1/5/2015)
	OASW's theme of the upcoming Social Work Week 2015, which is being celebrated during March 2-8, is: "Social Workers: Mobilizing Strengths in Individuals & Communities".