A Social Network Theory-Inspired Study of Social Work Intervention in the Vendor Economy

Abstract

This investigation concentrates on the opportunities and challenges confronted by social work intervention in the hawker economy. Concerning research background, small traders, who represent a crucial section of the hawker economy, encounter volatility in the economic milieu and insufficient social assistance. The study aims to comprehend the function and efficiency of social work in the area of vending in order to provide targeted policy recommendations and perspectives. To examine the feasibility of social work intervention, this study employed social network theory elaboration and a literature review. The study observed that social work intervention not only offers economic support, skills training and social networking opportunities to small traders but also enables their personal growth and social integration. Nonetheless, this study discovered resource, policy and cultural limitations that impede the effective professional intervention of social work. In summary, social work plays a crucial role in the growth of the hawker economy; nevertheless, there is an ongoing requirement to boost policy support and invest more in human and material resources to uphold development and amplify its social impact.