THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORKERS IN THE INCLUSION OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

The mapping of the studies was conducted using the following methods: This study examines the inclusion of people with disabilities (PWDs) in institutional settings, exploring how social inclusion can be achieved in educational institutions—that is, within the framework of educational policy. Thus, the overall objective of this research was to identify how social work professionals can address the needs of students with disabilities, thereby providing further insights into social inclusion. To achieve this objective, a qualitative study was conducted, incorporating a literature review, focused on the analysis of scientific articles discussing the intervention of these professionals. The mapping of the literature was carried out through the SciELO and Google Scholar portals, using specific keywords related to Social Work and the inclusion of people with disabilities. The research results highlighted the significant importance of Social Work in the educational context, particularly regarding the implementation of school inclusion for students with disabilities, the guarantee of rights, and mediation among the parties involved in the educational process, such as the school, the family, and public services. Among the main intervention strategies identified, referrals to sectors of the social protection network stand out, such as Social Assistance Reference Centers, Specialized Social Assistance Reference Centers, and health services, as well as the conduct of  The literature review was conducted using the SciELO and Google Scholar platforms, employing specific keywords related to social work and the inclusion of people with disabilities. The results of the socio-family context, with a view to gaining a broader understanding of the students’ reality. It was also found that social workers in the school context continue to face persistent professional devaluation, revealing institutional and structural limitations that hinder their work. Furthermore, the manifestations of social issues most frequently present in the analyzed studies were poverty, violence, and structural inequalities stemming from the exclusionary logic of the capitalist system.