What is the role of a broker in the context of social work?

The role of a broker in the context of social work primarily involves connecting clients with the necessary resources that can assist them in addressing their needs and improving their well-being. This can include linking clients to community services, support groups, financial assistance, educational programs, or healthcare services. The broker acts as an intermediary, facilitating access to resources that clients may not be aware of or may find difficult to navigate on their own.

In social work practice, being an effective broker requires knowledge of community resources, networking, and advocacy on behalf of clients. This role is critical in empowering clients to utilize available services and supports, which can enhance their quality of life and promote positive outcomes.

The other options do involve important functions within social work but do not accurately describe the specific role of a broker. Providing therapy is typically associated with clinicians or therapists, performing assessments relates more to the initial evaluation of a client’s situation rather than resource connection, and coordinating meetings is usually a logistical or administrative function rather than the primary task of connecting clients to resources.