PERAN PEKERJA SOSIAL DALAM PEMBENTUKKAN KEMANDIRIAN PENYANDANG DISABILITAS NETRA DI UPT REHABILITASI SOSIAL BINA NETRA ( RSBN ) MALANG

This research describes the role of social workers in the implementing unit for the Blind Social Rehabilitation Technique or UPT RSBN Malang, in forming the independence of people with visual disabilities. This research is a type of qualitative research using an explanatory approach. The data collection techniques used were observation, interviews and documentation. Data analysis was carried out using interactive qualitative data analysis models (Miles and Huberman: 1992), starting from data collection and data reduction, data presentation to drawing conclusions. The results of this research show that social workers at RSBN Malang have carried out their roles as educators, motivators, counselors, mediators and facilitators in assisting and building the independence of people with visual disabilities. Apart from building independence, social workers also train people with visual disabilities with skills, one of which is messaging or massaging. Among the efforts to optimize the results achieved is by taking a personal approach and actively encouraging interaction and communication between patients and families. However, there are several problems that become obstacles, for example the lack of acceptance from patients towards (new) social workers, excessive use of devices making it difficult to be disciplined and focus on other activities and lack of support from the family. In response to this, social workers then approach, consult and motivate clients and families. Through this kind of assistance, it is hoped that people with visual disabilities can be independent in carrying out daily activities (activities of daily living) and get opportunities to work according to their skills.