Social Worker

You can apply to do an intensive, work-based training programme for graduates if you've got a first or upper second class degree in any subject except social work. The programmes are:

• Frontline for children's social work
• Step Up to Social Work for children's social work
• Think Ahead for mental health social work

You'll need:

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of sociology and an understanding of society and culture
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• active listening skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Your duties will vary, depending on whether you work with children, families or adults. You could:

• offer information and counselling
• put together support plans for clients
• keep records and write reports
• discuss your cases with your supervisors
• support clients' safety and take appropriate action to protect them when necessary
• work closely with communities, health professionals and other agencies
• help clients to develop and maintain independent living skills
• hold meetings and assessments with individuals and families to review their situation

You could work in an office, in an NHS or private hospital, at an adult care home, at a children's care home or in the community.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

Experience of working with vulnerable groups or children is essential for most courses and jobs.

Before becoming qualified as a social worker, you can apply to be a social work assistant or support worker. You can also get skills and experience by volunteering in the community, with a charity or through paid work.

You can get more information on volunteering opportunities in your area from Do-it.

Registration

• you'll need to register with Social Work England

Career tips

It's possible to do a degree in social work and learning disabilities nursing. You'll need to check that the course is recognised by the relevant professional bodies. Course providers can advise you on this.

Further information

You can get more advice about becoming a social worker from the British Association of Social Workers and Think Care Careers.

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

A driving licence and your own transport will be useful though not always essential.