This oral presentation explores the dynamic intersection between social services and the metaverse, focusing on the challenges and competences essential for effective social work within virtual environments, recently referred as V-Social Work. Leveraging Roblox as a case study, a popular metaverse platform among the young population, we delve into the impact of this emerging socio-virtual dimension on community dynamics, individual behavior, ethics, and social intervention. The research employs a comprehensive methodology, beginning with an extensive literature review to establish a foundational understanding of the metaverse's implications on social interactions and ethical considerations. A case study design centered around Roblox captures firsthand experiences of individuals engaging in social activities within the platform. Utilizing the established professional codes of standards and competences in social work as a framework, we compare and contrast the challenges identified within the Roblox metaverse with traditional social work competences. This analysis informs an in-depth discussion on the epistemological and methodological implications of integrating virtual dimensions into social work practice. Our presentation concludes with the proposal of V-Social Work Competences, a set of skills tailored specifically for the metaverse. These competences encompass navigating virtual environments, understanding digital communities, addressing unique ethical concerns, and adapting intervention strategies to the virtual context. Practical implications and recommendations will be discussed to guide social work practitioners, educators, and policymakers in effectively integrating these competences into the profession.

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