Social Work Policy Research & Data

These reports examine issues related to the work of social workers, including how to serve people who have complex needs and how public agencies and other organizations deliver health and human services.

Summit: Maximizing Social Work's Policy Impact in a Changing Political Landscape


colorful notes from the meeting

The NASW Social Work Policy Institute hosted a summit, “Maximizing Social Work’s Policy Impact in a Changing Political Landscape,” April 26-27, 2017, in Washington, DC.

Representatives from social work organizations, advocacy coalitions, think tanks and educational institutions shared ideas, best practices, resources and plans for the future in supporting more social workers to engage in policy practice and to expand policy content across curricula.

columns with U.S. Congress dome in the distance

NASW Policy Issues


Federal policymakers play critical roles in promoting policies that help individuals, families, and communities to fulfill their potential and to lead healthy, productive lives. To assist in this effort, NASW proposes public policy recommendations for consideration by the executive branch and Congress.

Learn more about NASW's policy issues