Members of the LGBTIQ+ community experience rates of depression; anxiety and psychological distress much higher than the general population. Historically, stigma; discrimination, and a lack of public support for LGBTIQ+ Australians and their relationships has meant many struggled to achieve a sense of personal and collective worth, which is recognised as crucial for good mental health and overall wellbeing.
In line with calls from the Australian Association of Social Workers, Alison has been calling for the registration of the social work profession. Social workers are highly trained professionals with degree qualifications. They are trained to deal appropriately with people who are at great risk, and often experiencing serious mental health issues. If social workers were not well-trained, there is a great risk that vulnerable people could receive substandard or unethical care.
