Strengthening support for local practitioners who perform social work functions in complex emergencies: perspectives from Northwest Syria

This study explored perspectives on effective forms of support for Syrians who performed social work functions during the complex emergency in Northwest Syria through 29 interviews with international and Syrian practitioners. The study found that performing social work functions during the crisis was a unique and often difficult experience for practitioners, but performing social work functions was nonetheless important to them. Practitioners highlighted actions that supported and strengthened their practice, such as strengthening coordination and referral networks. This study’s findings illustrate how actions to support local practitioners’ well-being may also require efforts to strengthen social work practice.