What is the role of documentation in social work?

The role of documentation in social work is vital, serving as a comprehensive record of client interactions. This documentation captures important details about the client's situation, progress, goals, and the services provided. It is essential for several reasons: it ensures continuity of care by allowing different practitioners to understand the client's history and current status, it can aid in case management and coordination of services, and it is also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. Proper documentation supports accountability and transparency in practice, helps in assessing the effectiveness of interventions, and provides a reference for future work with the client or similar cases. This central function is a foundational aspect of ethical social work practice, directly linking to the overall goal of promoting the well-being of clients.