Abstract: Submission #57

Abstract Amid the escalating global crises that included wars, fires, droughts, extreme weather and health threats, social work practice faces urgent demands to respond effectively to vulnerable communities. These disasters require the profession to integrate innovative strategies that advance crisis intervention, promote sustainable development and social justice, and ensure quick response to crises. This qualitative study focuses on how responsive e-social work guidelines can enhance crisis intervention through digital platforms for marginalized populations in disaster contexts. The research was carried out in five nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in the Western Cape, South Africa. It engaged 16 service users and 12 practitioners through in-depth interviews and focus groups to critically explore what should be included in the responsive e-social work guidelines. Data was thematically analyzed to identify the emerging themes and subthemes. The draft of the guidelines was refined through two Delphi focus groups with 8 social workers and 9 service users. The guidelines consist of six key areas and 19 goals that serve as a blueprint for social work organizations to prepare both social workers and service users to engage in responsive e-social work during disasters and crises. This research explored “What should be included in the responsive e-social work in order for social work practitioners and service-users to engage in responsive e-social work during disasters and crises”? The study proposes actionable e-social work guidelines that emphasize the use of technology in crisis intervention, technological tools, protocols for responsive e-social work, ethical practice and organizational guidelines. By aligning digital innovation with participatory approaches, these guidelines aim to enhance crisis intervention, ensuring that interventions are culturally responsive and environmentally sustainable. This research underscores the role of technology in advancing crisis intervention by amplifying marginalized voices in policy and practice, while fostering resilience through inclusive disaster preparedness.