Canadian lone mothers: structural and systemic barriers in social work practice

Abstract

This Advanced Practicum Project Report examined the experience of my advanced practicum at the Canadian Mental Health Association North Bay and District (CMHA). This report reflects on the questions from the onset and my learning goals that consisted of understanding how the structural and systemic barriers that are in existence impact Canadian lone mothers’ social determinants of health; in allyship with experts by experience (Canadian lone mothers), to understand what Canadian lone mothers suggest needs to occur to mitigate or eradicate these barriers; to become knowledgeable about local community services, if any, so I can better refer lone mothers in instances where the placement organization is not suitable or does not offer the supports; to learn how to best support lone mothers from a structural, AOP, feminist approach in community social services. Furthermore, this report describes how the identified learning goals were adequately met through methods of shadowing case managers, conducting client sessions/interventions, performing clientele home visits, conducting research that focused on Canadian lone mothers, confiding with CMHA staff and my practicum supervisor, and receiving clinical supervision from my Masters of Social Work supervisor. The Advanced Practicum Report concludes with implications for transformative social work practice.