Cultural vulnerability: A narrative approach to intercultural care

This article uses analysis of focus group discussions with palliative care professionals in the United Kingdom to discuss the value of a stance of cultural vulnerability in intercultural social work. Cultural vulnerability recognizes mutual vulnerabilities in caring relationships. The meanings and potential of cultural vulnerability are explicated through an in-depth case study analysis of a group interview with hospice social workers. Narrative methods are advocated as a resource in supporting practitioners to recognize cultural vulnerability and to work with indeterminacy and difficult emotions. The representation and role of cultural knowledge and racism in social work narratives is givenspecific attention.