Empowerment by hotline: Experiences during the SARS outbreak

Abstract

In the spring of 2003, the spread of a new contagious disease, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), caused fear and anxiety in the Hong Kong community due to insufficient understanding and information. This paper recounts the experience of setting up an anti-SARS hotline service, which empowered the community by encouraging a sense of confidence and control. During the process, the link between social work education and direct practice was re-established and revitalised.