https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/321 2026-08-11T11:45:28Z 2026-08-11T11:45:28Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148399 2026-08-04T11:10:24Z 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Supporting social dialogue in the age of platform work and flexible employment : Malta country report Abstract: This report examines the nature of platform work and flexible employment in Malta as part of the EU-funded project "Supporting Social Dialogue in the Age of Platform Work and Flexible Employment." Building on previous research, it evaluates the working conditions, multi-dimensional precarity, and operational hardships faced by platform workers—particularly Third-Country Nationals (TCNs)—in the food delivery and passenger transport (Y-Plate) sectors. The report analyzes existing legal frameworks (such as S.L. 452.127), evaluates recent collective bargaining milestones including the landmark GWU–MDFOA collective agreement, and proposes strategic policy recommendations regarding infrastructural improvements, EU directive transposition, capacity building, and enhanced regulatory monitoring and enforcement.

2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148261 2026-07-28T06:30:35Z 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Social workers use of research evidence in the assessment process Abstract: The study is situated within the Maltese context, while seeking to contribute to the broader academic discourse on evidence-based practice (EBP) in social work.

2023-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148260 2026-07-28T06:25:37Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Embracing an integrative approach towards evidence-based social work practice : a mixed methods study Abstract: This presentation was delivered at the annual research conference organised by the University of Hertfordshire and explored key findings and emerging insights arising from the author's PhD research.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Suarez, Holger https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/148253 2026-08-05T09:02:47Z 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The use of evidence in social work practice : facilitators and barriers Authors: Suarez, Holger Abstract: Research has shown that lack of time, resources and research knowledge could be the main barriers to using evidence in social work practice. This research explores other possible barriers and facilitators. Through an integrative literature review, empirical research has been analysed. The study adopts a mixed-method (constructivist) grounded theory method (MMGTM). The methods include a survey questionnaire and qualitative interviews. Data from 412 responses (62.6% participation rate) and 18 interviews are still being analysed using the Constant Comparative Method (CCM) between data, coding, categories and concepts. More data might be collected until theoretical saturation is reached. Participants so far include professional social workers (front liners, managers and academics) in Malta. Using theoretical sampling, other participants, such as service users, are not excluded. Participation is voluntary, confidential and anonymous. Emerging themes suggest that barriers such as restricted professional discretion, superficial practice and low reading level contribute to the minimal use of evidence in social work. In a highly specialised and managerialist setting, with increasingly restricted 'turf', social workers are likely to become more like social technicians who follow top-down procedures. Evidence-based practice (EBP) means many things to social workers, supervisors, managers, academics and policymakers; EBP has been inflated, misused and misunderstood. The study aims to propose a pragmatic and grounded theory that explains the dynamic processes that social workers deal with while implementing evidence in their day-to-day practice.

2023-01-01T00:00:00Z