Improving client access to legal and social services: A Social Work student’s experience in field placement

Monika Touzin, MSW student, shares her experience taking an advanced practice field placement at the Legal Help Centre.

How did you select the right placement for you?

When first meeting with staff of the Legal Help Centre (LHC), I knew that their organization would be the right fit for my final social work practicum placement. My conversation reflected LHC’s vast knowledge of the social issues commonly confronted by clients at LHC and the care the staff put into the work they do. Furthermore, they showed how much they valued the role of the social work student in the organization.  

What would a day at your placement look like?

At LHC, one of the main points of contact for clients is through drop-in clinics. These clinics are offered twice a week on a first-come, first-served basis. Clients meet with a law student, discuss their legal issues, and are provided with legal information and referrals. Due to the interrelated nature of social and legal issues, clients may also meet with me as the social work student. Once I gain an understanding of the social issue, I then provide them with a referral to a community organization that can help address the issue.

Any challenges or opportunities you experienced at your placement?

Given the broad nature of issues faced by clients, I am always learning about new resources available in the community. More specifically, I have referred clients to community organizations in the areas of mental health, domestic violence, homelessness, and advocacy. Although much of my work is done through drop-in, throughout my time at LHC I have worked on several projects. As the social work student, I also follow up with clients on referrals I have made and complete research on resources that may be helpful for clients. I have also been provided the opportunity to attend court.  All of these opportunities have strengthened my skills and increased my knowledge in community organizations. 

How would you describe your overall experience at Legal Help Centre?

Overall, my experience at LHC has been invaluable. I am grateful for all the work done by the staff at LHC to improve the services they provide by consistently asking for feedback from clients, volunteers, and students. Throughout my time at LHC I have worked in an interdisciplinary team, helped clients from diverse backgrounds, and adapted to a fast-paced environment. I have also gained knowledge on community organizations and various areas of the law. The skills, knowledge, and experience gained from my time at LHC will stay with me throughout my career as a social worker. 

The Legal Help Centre (LHC) offers an interdisciplinary approach to solving legal issues. LHC aims to improve clients’ access to legal and social service resources. Their services are offered to socially and economically disadvantaged members of the community. To meet the organization’s mission, LHC uses a team approach with a focus on accessibility, empowerment, and flexibility. The team approach utilized by LHC includes having staff lawyers in the areas of wills and estates, civil law, and family law, volunteer lawyers, and students in law, social work, criminal justice, and human rights. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that legal and social issues faced by clients are viewed from different perspectives.