How to Become a Social Worker in the United Kingdom
Social workers are invaluable members of the workforce as their line of work requires special skills. They are optimistic and efficient in solving crises among different age groups in the society. If you would like to be a social worker in the United Kingdom, you are required to take a postgraduate course on social work as prescribed by its Social Work council. If you are a registered social worker, further training is also an obligation to maintain your license.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Earn your bachelor's degree and then register in a postgraduate program in social work, approved by the General Social Care Council (GSSC). It's a combination of theoretical studies and 200 days of practice.
-
2
Consider doing volunteer work to gain more experience in the social work environment. Prospective places to volunteer include shelters, orphanages and juvenile halls.
-
-
3
After qualifying to become a social worker, you are required to work toward the Post-Qualifying Awards approved by the GSSC. You must pass these three academic levels in order to progress through the PQ framework.
-
4
Complete 90 hours--or 15 days--of training, seminars, courses and reading; this is mandatory once you become a registered social worker. You must achieve this training within 3 years upon your registration in order to ensure your GSSC registration.
Social workers who qualified abroad must get professional assessment from the GSSC to determine their eligibility to work in the United Kingdom. For nationals of European Union (EU) countries wishing to be social workers in the United Kingdom, your application will be processed following relevant EU directives. And for non-EU nationals, regulations on proper work visas apply.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Social workers are expected to have a positive outlook and good organizational skills along with a firm grip on problem-solving. Being a multitasker and team player is also beneficial, as you often hold administrative jobs in organizations. Apply for bursaries if your income cannot supplement your schooling. Early on in the postgraduate course, you will be placed in your first job as a social worker. This is a practical assessment of your skills by a faculty member during the placement.
