Social Worker
What is a career as a social worker?
Social workers provide support to individuals and families facing challenges like mental health issues, disability, substance abuse, and family breakdowns. They work with vulnerable populations, advocating for their rights and helping them access necessary services, such as housing, healthcare, and education.
Key duties:
- Assessing the needs of individuals and families.
- Developing care plans and making referrals to services.
- Supporting people through difficult life situations, such as domestic abuse or mental health crises.
- Liaising with other professionals, such as doctors, teachers, and police.
Entry routes and pay:
To become a qualified social worker in the UK, you must complete an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in social work that is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This is the most common and structured route. You may be able to complete a postgraduate course if you have another degree in a relevant subject.
After completing your degree (whether undergraduate, postgraduate, or apprenticeship), you will need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) before you can practice as a social worker in the UK.
For those who want to earn while they learn, the social worker degree apprenticeship route offers an alternative to full-time university study.
Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship
- Duration: Typically 3-4 years.
- Entry Requirements:
- You will generally need at least 5 GCSEs (including English and Maths) and 2 A-levels or equivalent qualifications.
- Some employers may also accept Access to Higher Education diplomas or work experience in relevant settings.
- Employers will likely require an interview and skills assessment.
A typical salary will start at £32,000 with opportunities to progress into senior roles up to £48,000.
Where can you work?
Care Home
Community
Hospice
Hospital
Mental Health
