Impact of equity-centered training: supporting racialized communities with enhanced education for social workers

Social workers benefit from increasing their skills and knowledge working with a diverse range of communities and populations, particularly among racialized and marginalized communities. This study evaluates an Ontario-based project on equity-centered training to social workers with a focus on the experiences of adult racialized learners. Data was collected through a convenience sample of participants completing post-training evaluation surveys which measured learner's satisfaction, learning, and confidence. We delivered 53 trainings to over 3,000 learners and a total of 670 surveys were analyzed. Respondents were approximately 41% racialized, 40% aged 45 and under, 84% female, and 39% with over 15 years of experience. Compared to non-racialized learners, racialized learners reported higher satisfaction with an increased willingness to apply knowledge to practice. In addition, racialized learners reported a higher increase in skills developed and confidence, including interest in specific areas like intergenerational trauma. All learners shared the importance of critical self-reflection and awareness, appreciation for practical strategies, and openness to ongoing learning. It is important to offer equity-centered training to social workers that increase skills and knowledge in developing inclusive mental health services. Professional development can complement formal education in meeting the needs of increasingly diverse communities.