Job Description
Social Workers provide help, support and advice to vulnerable people in the community, they work with families and individuals to help them to improve their lives. They will also work closely with other organisations such as schools, hospitals and probation services to ensure that children, older people and vulnerable adults are given the support required to improve their circumstances.
Entry Requirements
You could get into this role through a university course or an apprenticeship.
University
You'll need a degree in social work approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
You can study as an undergraduate, which will usually take 3 years full-time. If you've already got a first degree in another subject, you can take a 2 year master’s degree in social work. When you qualify, you must also register with the HCPC.
For your degree course you will usually need
- 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent including English and maths
- and 2 or 3 A levels
If you already have a degree and it isn't in social work, if it's a 2:1 or above, you could apply to a fast-track training route like Frontline, Think Ahead or Step Up to Social Work.
Apprenticeship
You could complete a social work degree apprenticeship which takes around 3 years
You will ususally need
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent
- and A levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification
You can search for vacancies on the NHS jobs website and Find an Apprenticeship website
Work Experience and volunteering
Wherever you decide to study or train you will need to show that you have experience in working with vulnerable groups or children and that you have an understanding of social work. This can be gained through through voluntary or paid work or it could be through your own life experiences of caring for a family member or friend.
You can find volunteering opportunities through Voluntary Norfolk and Volunteer Suffolk
Further information
You will need to pass background checks by Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
You'll need to register with Social Work England
For further details about becoming a social worker go to British Association of Social Workers, Think Care Careers and Health Careers
Required Skills
- Excellent communication and people skills
- The ability to listen and understand and find suitable solutions to situations
- The ability to relate to people of all ages
- A non-judgemental attitude
- Excellent organisational skills
- Tact and perseverance
- The ability to assess a situation and take appropriate action
- Good computer literacy and administrative skills
Salary Range
£24,000 to £40,000
