A Cuban woman who recently highlighted the lack of a coffin and transportation for her deceased uncle blames a social worker for his death. Olenmis Miranda Sevilla, the niece of the elderly man from La Estrella in the Granma municipality of Buey Arriba, revealed that her uncle's body was left for hours on a porch, decomposing and smelling, due to a lack of transport to the cemetery.
After her complaint was addressed, Olenmis disclosed that her uncle had taken his own life because the social worker attending to him forced him to live alone under the threat of losing his pension. "She cornered him and insisted he had to live alone, or else they'd take away his pension. Imagine a visually and physically impaired person without a place to live. My sister took him in, but they were practically forcing him to live under a bridge," she detailed on her Facebook page.
"Tired of the threats from that awful social worker, he ended his life. But God is great and powerful, and she will pay for his death," she emphasized.
The woman expressed gratitude to everyone who shared the original post and to those who offered their support. "I know this will bring some disorder and many problems, but the tears, the pain, and all the suffering we endured, especially seeing my mother and grandmother in such agony, give me the strength to face anything," she said.
"Now, help me make sure that social worker pays for all those threats. She caused my uncle's death," she underlined.
Numerous netizens commented on the post, offering their condolences and criticizing the social worker's actions. "A social worker is supposed to help and support the needy and vulnerable. Clearly, your uncle, who was blind and had a disabled arm, couldn't live alone. If he didn't have a home, where was he supposed to go? She conducted a poor vulnerability assessment, misapplied the law, and completely mishandled the situation. We hope you receive a convincing response and that she faces appropriate consequences," one woman commented.
"These are the so-called good social workers of this revolution, who take from the needy to give to their friends and family, leaving those who truly need help without support," another person stated.
"It's true, they always threaten to take away my children's pension as if that money came out of their pockets," a young woman pointed out.
"I know how it is. Social workers tell the elderly, 'If you don't live alone, I'll take away your pension.' They did that to my grandmother after years of working for this country," another person confirmed.
Impact of Social Worker Actions on Vulnerable Populations in Cuba
This section addresses key questions and answers regarding the role and responsibilities of social workers in Cuba, especially in relation to vulnerable populations.
What are the main responsibilities of social workers in Cuba?
Social workers in Cuba are supposed to support and assist those in need, particularly vulnerable populations like the elderly, disabled, and children. Their role includes conducting assessments, providing resources, and ensuring the well-being of their clients.
How should social workers handle cases involving vulnerable individuals?
Social workers should conduct thorough assessments to understand the specific needs and vulnerabilities of individuals. They must provide appropriate support and resources, ensuring that clients are not left in harmful situations and have access to basic necessities like housing and medical care.
What can be done if a social worker fails in their duties?
If a social worker fails in their duties, it is crucial to report the misconduct to higher authorities or relevant organizations. Legal action can be taken, and the social worker may face disciplinary measures, including suspension or termination.