Jane Spiteri, voice of 'the real people'

Jane Spiteri, a pioneer in the social work profession in Malta and honorary member of the Maltese Association of Social Workers, has sadly passed away. Ms Spiteri started her career as a teacher and was the co-founder and honorary president of the National Council of Women. She was recently described in the local papers as the Grand Dame of feminism and she was a regular presence in the local media.

Jane had social work values close to her heart. During our MASW get-togethers she was a constant presence, bringing the voice of service users - "of the real people" - to the attention and focus of our discussions.

Often Jane would leave me with a feeling of "what am I waiting for to go out and change things!" One of her characteristics that used to inspire me was her progressive thinking to which she coupled frank and humane pragmatism. Those who remember her describe her as very caring, dutiful and particularly enlightening, insightful and above all a great advocate! Jane had that which we refer to as a holistic vision and she certainly knew how to bring that vision to reality through advocacy, the media and various forms of social action.

These characteristics not only lie at the core of the social worker's identity but are also currently being revisited in various international debates as the role of social action and social justice in relation to the definition and ethical values of social work.

Jane, on behalf of social workers in Malta, I would like to thank you for your belief in our profession, your courage to take a stand and speak out, your example and the support you gave to many people, families and social workers.