Social worker
Social work is about helping people who are struggling in their everyday lives. Social workers may support individuals, families or community groups and may work in clients’ homes, schools, hospitals or specialist centres.
They may work with young people, offenders, school truants, people with mental health problems, the elderly, drug or alcohol users or people with disabilities. Their role involves building relationships with their clients and acting as a guide, advocate or friend.
Social workers need to know how the law works and keep up to date with the welfare system. They will deal regularly with other professionals, including teachers, doctors, nurses, police officers and lawyers.
The job may include carrying out and writing assessments, conducting interviews with clients and their families, and making decisions about the best ways of meeting clients’ needs.
Social workers will also need to liaise with other agencies, keep accurate records, and may be asked to give evidence in court.
Did you know?
Social work officially came into existence in local authorities in the 1970s, but it originated in the 19th century as philanthropists worked alongside courts, hospitals and workhouses to tackle the problems of the poor.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
£18,000-£25,000 in local authorities, pay varies in the private sector.
- Senior level salary:
Up to £37,000.
- Education:
Social workers qualify by taking either an undergraduate social work degree or a shorter postgraduate course, and they must register with the General Social Care Council. There are bursaries for full and part-time students. Newly qualified social workers have to complete their post-qualification award in social work within two years of qualifying. There are also numerous on-the-job training courses for those wanting to specialise in particular areas of social work, such as mental health.
- Skills:
You'll need to be good with people and have a strong desire to help others to improve their lives.
- Likely employer type:
Local authorities, charities, privately run care homes, prisons and hospitals.
- Opportunities:
There is currently a shortage of social workers, especially in urban areas and within local authorities.
- Number of professionals:
There are over 100,000 social workers in the UK and demand is increasing.
Meet a social worker
Helpful links
- Department of HealthSocial work recruitment website with information about careers in social work
- General Social Care CouncilOversees professional standards for social workers
- British Association of Social WorkersRepresents social work and social workers
