Social work, healthcare and communication with migrants: Linguistic and cultural problems and perspectives of social workers

Keywords: PSIT, social translation and interpreting, intercultural mediation, migration

Abstract

This paper analyses the barriers faced by migrants in accessing social and healthcare services in Spain. Specifically, we will present the results of a survey conducted with social work professionals in healthcare settings. Our aim is to explore their perceptions regarding the actual access of migrant population to these services, as well as their direct experiences with migrant users. We will try to identify the main challenges they encounter, particularly linguistic and cultural barriers, and examine the strategies they normally employ to address them. Based on the data gathered, it is our goal to emphasise the importance of linguistic assistance and cultural mediation in social and healthcare services, highlighting the crucial role that professional translators and interpreters play in ensuring effective communication and equal access to public services, as well as the protection of essential health and social rights for migrants.

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Published
2026-03-09
How to Cite
Sanz de la Rosa A. y Llopis Pérez B. (2026). Social work, healthcare and communication with migrants: Linguistic and cultural problems and perspectives of social workers. Círculo de Lingüística Aplicada a la Comunicación, 105, 81-94. https://doi.org/10.5209/clac.107872