Does Contingency Work in Human Service Agencies Compromise Practice and Practice Ethics?: An Exploratory Study

The use of contingency workers has increased in the human service sector though the consequences of this labour arrangement have not been examined. This article reports findings from an exploratory study in which 15 human service workers employed on a contingency basis were interviewed regarding their choices and the consequences of their jobs. Two broad research questions guide discussion and analysis: (1) how do current contingent workers describe or assess their employment situations, and (2) given this information, how might contingency status impact practice ethics. Results suggest that because of the precarious nature of contingency work, practice ethics are compromised. Respondents reported that they do not have access to regular supervision or are not attached to their co-workers or agencies, which means that they are not able to readily consult with others when ethical challenges arise. Discussion focuses on the broader implications that contingency arrangements have not just for ethical decision-making, but for the development of the workers, the agencies, and the human service sector.