When crisis strikes

When the COVID-19 pandemic reached Norway in March 2020, comprehensive action was taken by government, leading to lockdown of welfare institutions, schools and kindergartens, strict restrictions on physical meetings. This had severe consequences for Child Welfare Protection services (CWP). The stopped child protection home visits professionals other which usually observe children notify services, were no longer able identify at risk. article, drawing interviews with 10 social workers, explores their experience during COVID-19. Applying Lipsky’s concept street-level bureaucrats theories professional identity, article documents how not only restricted, but also modified workers jobs, led self-reflection identity. In turn, findings suggest potential beneficial changes practices aftermath