As a social worker, embodying core values and ethics is essential to your practice. According to The British Association of Social Workers (BASW), these principles should guide your interactions with clients and shape your overall impact on the community. In this blog, we will delve into the fundamental values and ethical considerations that should be at the forefront of your social work career, providing a comprehensive understanding of why these elements are so crucial. 

Respect for Human Rights and Dignity 

This value is particularly important for social workers who, on a daily basis, make decisions that impact the future needs of those they work with. In these moments, social workers are to: 

• Promote and uphold human dignity and well-being 

• Respect individuals’ right to self-determination 

• Advocate for the right to participate 

• Approach work holistically 

• Recognise and nurture strengths 

It’s vital to understand that every individual has a unique background, with diverse circumstances and needs. Your decisions and actions should always be informed by these factors. Recognising the abilities and strengths of each person, group, or community ensures that everyone is empowered to achieve their desired outcomes. 

Empathy 

Empathy is a cornerstone of effective social work. It involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which fosters strong relationships with clients. Social workers should: 

• Actively listen to clients’ concerns 

• Validate their emotions 

• Build trust through open communication 

By demonstrating empathy, you create a safe space for clients to share their experiences, which is essential for effective support and intervention. 

Integrity 

Integrity involves upholding strong moral principles in all interactions. Social workers are expected to: 

• Maintain honesty and transparency 

• Uphold ethical standards consistently 

• Act in the best interests of clients 

Being reliable and ethical not only builds trust with clients but also reinforces professional standards in the social care sector. 

Respect for Diversity 

Respecting diversity is crucial in today’s multicultural society. Social workers should: 

• Acknowledge and appreciate different backgrounds 

• Adapt approaches to suit individual client needs 

• Commit to cultural competence 

Embracing diversity enhances the effectiveness of interventions and ensures that all clients feel valued and understood. 

Social Justice 

Advocating for social change is a key aspect of social work. Social workers should strive to: 

• Challenge systemic inequalities 

• Promote policies that benefit marginalized groups 

• Empower clients to advocate for themselves 

By embracing social justice, you contribute to meaningful changes that can positively impact individuals and communities. 

Confidentiality 

Confidentiality is fundamental to building trust in social work. Social workers are responsible for: 

• Protecting client privacy at all times 

• Educating clients about their rights regarding confidentiality 

• Clearly communicating the circumstances under which information may be shared 

Upholding confidentiality reinforces the professional standards expected in social work practice. 

Client-Centered Approach 

A client-centered approach focuses on the needs and preferences of your clients. Social workers should: 

• Involve clients in the decision-making process 

• Respect clients’ autonomy and choices 

• Tailor support to individual circumstances 

This approach fosters collaboration and encourages clients to take an active role in their own care, leading to more effective outcomes. 

Professional Competence 

Continuous professional development is essential in social work. Social workers should: 

• Engage in ongoing education and training 

• Stay informed about industry standards and best practices 

• Seek supervision and feedback to improve practice 

By committing to lifelong learning, you ensure that you provide the best possible care. 

Boundaries 

Establishing professional boundaries is crucial for effective practice. Social workers should: 

• Clearly communicate the nature of the professional relationship 

• Maintain appropriate distance while being supportive 

• Protect both themselves and their clients from conflicts of interest 

Setting boundaries contributes to a safe and respectful environment for all parties involved. 

Advocacy 

Being an advocate for clients is a critical responsibility for social workers. This involves: 

• Supporting clients’ rights and access to services 

• Raising awareness about social issues affecting clients 

• Empowering clients to advocate for themselves 

By actively advocating, you help to amplify the voices of those you serve. 

Embodying the core values and ethics of social work is crucial for building a successful career in this field. By incorporating these principles into your everyday practice, you have the power to make a meaningful difference in your clients’ lives and positively impact the community.  

At Pertemps Social Care, we are committed to supporting you on your journey to a fulfilling career in this vital profession.  

If you’re ready to advance your social work career, we have a wealth of opportunities waiting for you.  

With our deep understanding of the social work profession, we’re here to help you find the ideal role that aligns with your aspirations, brings you lasting fulfilment, and elevates your career to new heights. 

Get in touch to discover our current job openings and see how we can support your job search today! 

For many young people who have moved into semi or independent living for the first time, the festive season can be particularly difficult.

The emotional and mental health challenges they may face, combined with the rising cost of living and a sense of isolation, can often make the run-up to Christmas especially tough.

That’s why Pertemps Social Care is supporting Kerry Bull, a social worker at Wirral Council, as she launches a Christmas Gift Appeal to bring joy and comfort to care leavers this winter.

How You Can Help

You can make a difference by donating gifts through an online wish list. It has been carefully designed to provide gifts and essential items to these young people. These thoughtful gifts will:

• Provide young people with gifts to open on Christmas Day, reminding them that they are cared for and not alone.

• Help make sure they have essential supplies alongside festive cheer.

The Impact of Your Generosity

Jackie Whateley, Director of Social Care, Pertemps Social Care said: “We’ve been delighted to support Kerry Bull’s Gift Appeals in previous years. This Christmas we’re more than happy to help make Christmas special for the young people most in need. Christmas can be tough for many of our young people, especially those who do not have family around them, and the donations of these presents will make a huge difference.”

How to Donate

• Browse the Amazon Wish List, featuring items most needed and wanted by care leavers.
• Simply click to purchase! Amazon, Kerry Bull and her team will do the rest to ensure they reach their destination.

By working together, we can brighten the day of a young person navigating the challenges of life after care.

Click here to donate via the Amazon Wish List

At Pertemps Social Care, we take great pride in celebrating our incredible team. If you’ve partnered with us before, you’ve likely built a strong rapport with our recruitment staff.

However, you may not be familiar with our unsung heroes: the operations team. This dedicated group works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything runs seamlessly. Today, we’re shining a light on our Compliance Team Leader, Katie Prescott, and the crucial role her team plays in maintaining our high standards. 

Katie’s Journey into Compliance 

Like many in the industry, Katie didn’t initially set out to work in compliance. In fact, she stumbled into it somewhat by chance. Originally, Katie was lined up for a role in our sales team, but just before she was due to start, the pandemic hit meaning plans changed. Instead, she spent a few months as a call handler for the North West Ambulance Service. Then, an opportunity in compliance came up, and she hasn’t looked back since. 

“I was referred to the Director of Social Care, Jackie, and asked if I was available for a vacancy in the compliance team. With my background in customer service, admin management, and qualifications in law and HR, it felt like a great fit. I’ve never felt more comfortable in a role or a business before!” 

What Does a Day in Compliance Look Like? 

Katie’s role as a Compliance Team Leader involves much more than just ticking boxes. It’s about ensuring that every aspect of compliance is handled with care, from auditing and problem-solving to managing projects and team development. But it’s not all behind-the-scenes admin. Katie spends a lot of time working directly with candidates and building relationships with other teams in the business. 

“Communication is key. We work closely with various teams to make sure everything is in place, and that everyone is on the same page. It’s about more than just compliance—it’s about making sure that every candidate is ready to go, and that clients can trust us to deliver.” 

Why Compliance Matters 

In the world of social care work recruitment, compliance is critical. It’s about safeguarding everyone involved, from the service users to the candidates and the business itself. For Katie and her team, every check matters, and overlooking any detail just isn’t an option! 

“Our job is to make sure that the right checks are done before anyone starts work. Social care involves working with vulnerable people, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that the candidates we place are ready and safe to do that. That’s why compliance is so important—it protects everyone.” 

The Rewards and Challenges of Compliance 

One of the things Katie loves most about her job is the sense of order that compliance brings. There are clear requirements to follow, and meeting those requirements provides a sense of accomplishment. 

“There’s nothing ambiguous about it—compliance is structured, and I like that. You know exactly what needs to be done, and when you get someone ready to start their role, it’s a great feeling.” 

Of course, the role isn’t without its challenges. Delays can happen, especially when waiting for external responses or DBS checks. But for Katie, overcoming these hurdles is just part of the job. 

“One of the biggest challenges is relying on others to complete their part of the process, like waiting for references or DBS applications. It can be frustrating, but communication and perseverance are key to keeping everything moving.” 

The Importance of a Supportive Team 

As a leader, Katie believes in leading by example. She’s always there for her team, whether that’s checking in with them, offering advice, or showing them how to be proactive and productive in their roles. 

“If my team can see that I’m working hard and staying positive, I hope they’ll feel inspired to do the same. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated.” 

The Heart of the Recruitment Process 

Katie’s team is bridging the gap between candidates and clients. Once a candidate is placed, it’s up to the compliance team to make sure they meet the necessary standards. 

“Our role is to ensure that the candidates we place are the best possible fit for our clients. We’re regularly audited to make sure we’re meeting the high standards set out in our contracts, and failing to do so can have serious consequences, like losing contracts. But we’re here to safeguard both the candidates and the clients, and to ensure we deliver on our promises.” 

Looking Ahead 

Since joining Pertemps Social Care in 2020, Katie has progressed from Compliance Officer to Team Leader, recruiting a fresh team along the way. As she looks ahead, Katie is excited about what the future holds, not only for her career but for the entire compliance team. 

“This past year has shown me just how resilient and driven I am. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, and I can’t wait to continue developing into more senior roles within compliance and operations.” 

A Team That Drives Success 

The operations team plays an essential role in maintaining the high standards we promise our clients and candidates. With dedicated team leaders like Katie Prescott and a culture of collaboration, our behind-the-scenes work ensures that every candidate is fully equipped to succeed in their roles, and that clients can trust us to deliver.  

Learn more about what it’s like to Work for Us and our Employee Benefits. 

After a good few years in recruitment (more than I care to mention!), I’ve seen a lot of changes in both the social care sector and my own role.

When I first started, my primary focus was on building a strong network – connecting with talented social workers and developing relationships with organisations in need of their expertise. In those early days, much of my time was spent searching for the best candidates, learning about social care, and building trust with clients. I knew that placing the right people in the right roles had the potential to change lives, and that was what drove me.

Deep understanding

As the years passed, I established a robust talent pool of candidates and built a network of clients who trusted me to understand their needs. My understanding of the social care sector deepened, and I saw first-hand how vital social workers are to the well-being of vulnerable children and adults. It became clear that my role wasn’t just about filling positions – it was about making meaningful connections that help social workers do what they do best: support those in need.

Mentoring responsibilities

Recently, my responsibilities have shifted as I’ve taken on the role of mentoring junior and more experienced recruitment consultants. Leading a team has given me the opportunity to pass on the knowledge and experience I’ve gained over the years. I’m committed to helping my colleagues grow, not just in their understanding of recruitment, but in their dedication to the social care sector. My goal is to ensure they build rewarding and satisfying careers by providing them with the tools to support social workers in their critical roles.

Investing time

Social workers face immense challenges every day, and it’s the responsibility of recruitment consultants like us to ensure they have the support they need to succeed. I believe in the importance of investing time in understanding the candidates we represent, advocating for their strengths, and building relationships with clients that are based on trust and respect. It’s not just about recruitment; it’s about contributing to a sector that makes a difference in people’s lives.

Long-term value

I wouldn’t be doing what I do if I didn’t enjoy my work and believe that what my colleagues and I do has long-term value. The satisfaction of helping social workers find roles where they can thrive, while also mentoring the next generation of recruitment consultants, is what makes this job so fulfilling. The social care sector is a challenging but rewarding space, and I’m proud to be a part of it.

Yusuf Memon is a Team Manager at Pertemps Social Care. He can be reached on 020 3906 4079 or by email: yusuf.memon@pprsocialcare.co.uk

Mental health social workers play a critical role in the healthcare system, providing support, advocacy, and treatment to individuals facing mental health challenges. As the demand for mental health services continues to grow in the UK, social workers have become essential in helping individuals manage mental health conditions, navigate resources, and access care. 

If you’re a social worker considering a move into mental health, we’ve compiled everything you need to guide your career shift. From understanding the core responsibilities of a mental health social worker to learning how to get started and grow within the field, we’ve got you covered.

At Pertemps Social Care, we offer support for individuals looking to transition into mental health social work, helping them find the right job opportunities. 

What Responsibilities Does a Mental Health Social Worker Have? 

A mental health social worker’s role revolves around assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders. They work in various settings, including hospitals, community mental health centres, and private practices. As a mental health social worker, you will:
 

• Establish strong connections with service users, their families, friends, and carers to foster a supportive environment. 

• Assess clients’ emotional and psychological needs through interviews, background information, and diagnostic tools to identify mental health conditions. 

• Provide support and guidance and offer tools and resources to help individuals achieve positive changes in their lives. 

• Collaborate with clients to create personalised treatment plans, which may include therapy, counselling, and coordination with healthcare providers. 

• Assess service users’ needs to determine the appropriate level of support and care required. 

This list is not exhaustive as each day as a mental health social worker brings unique challenges, but the primary focus of the role is to provide support to individuals in crisis. You will collaborate with various teams to identify and address any complexities and risks that arise. 

How Do Mental Health Social Workers Help? 

Mental health social workers bridge the gap between medical professionals, social services, and the clients themselves. Their role is especially important for vulnerable populations, such as those experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, as they provide comprehensive care that addresses both mental health and social determinants. 

They also help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues by offering empathetic and non-judgmental support. In a time when mental health awareness is at its peak, social workers are pivotal in breaking down barriers to care. 

What Skills Are Required to Be a Mental Health Social Worker? 

When working as a mental health social worker, it’s essential to possess specific skills and qualities, including: 

Empathy 

Understanding clients’ emotions and experiences is crucial for building trust and providing effective support. 

Cultural Competency 

Social workers must be aware of cultural, social, and economic differences and how they affect mental health. 

Strong Communication Skills 

Effective communication skills are essential for conducting assessments, facilitating therapy, and coordinating care with other professionals. 

Patience and Resilience 

The role can be emotionally taxing, and so patience and resilience can help social workers handle the stress and emotional demands of the job. 

Where Do Mental Health Social Workers Work? 

Mental health social workers are found in a variety of settings, including: 

• Hospitals and Clinics: These social workers often collaborate with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to offer comprehensive care. 

• Community Health Organisations: In these settings, social workers focus on outreach and preventative care, ensuring at-risk populations receive the support they need. 

• Private Practice: Some mental health social workers offer therapy and counselling services independently, often specialising in areas such as trauma, addiction, or family therapy. 

How to Become a Mental Health Social Worker 

Becoming a mental health social worker in the UK requires a combination of education and practical experience. Most individuals either already have a degree in social work, or start a degree, followed by specialised training in mental health. 

After specialised training, it’s pertinent to complete clinical training as mental health social workers need hands-on experience, which is typically gained through supervised internships or placements. 

Finally, after completing the required education and training, aspiring social workers must pass licensure exams, such as the ASYE (Assessed and Supported Year in Employment) in the UK. 

Career Development in Mental Health Social Work 

A career in mental health social work offers a diverse range of future opportunities. You might choose to remain in a frontline role, become an Approved Mental Capacity Professional (AMCP), or pursue additional qualifications to become an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP). Both AMCP and AMHP positions enable you to continue providing support for individuals’ treatment and living situations under the Mental Health Act.  

Another avenue is to specialise in working with specific demographics, delving into particular areas of mental health, or focusing on professional growth as a therapist by offering specific types of therapy. 

Mental Health Social Work Opportunities with Pertemps 

At Pertemps Social Care Recruitment, we can assist you in finding social work roles in mental health that align with your career goals. 

We have established partnerships with our diverse client base across the UK and regularly place social workers within public and private organisations throughout the UK 

Our dedicated consultants are here to support you throughout your job search. They’ll use their extensive networks and sector knowledge on your behalf, carry out a thorough job search and identify your ‘best fit’ vacancies. 

Register with Pertemps today to discover how we can help you take an exciting step forward in your social work career. 

The Importance of Mental Health for Social Care Professionals: Prioritising Well-being in the Workplace

On Mental Health Day, it’s essential to focus on an often overlooked aspect of the social care sector: the mental health of the professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others. Social care professionals work tirelessly to support individuals through challenging and often traumatic circumstances, but in doing so, they frequently face their own emotional and psychological hurdles.

The nature of social care work is profoundly rewarding, but it also brings significant challenges.

The constant exposure to individuals in distress and the responsibility of managing complex, emotional situations can take a considerable toll. This emotional weight is compounded by the pressures of high caseloads, administrative demands, and sometimes exposure to traumatic events. The result can be a substantial strain on mental health, which, if left unaddressed, may lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction.

When mental health is prioritised, professionals are more likely to experience increased job satisfaction and remain committed to their roles.

It’s crucial to recognise that supporting mental health in the workplace is not merely about reducing absenteeism or enhancing productivity. It’s about creating an environment where social care professionals can thrive and continue to deliver exceptional care. This, in turn, directly benefits the clients they serve, as staff who are well-supported and mentally resilient are better equipped to provide compassionate, effective care.

To support mental health effectively, organisations need to implement comprehensive strategies.

Regular mental health check-ins can offer a crucial opportunity for staff to discuss their well-being and any challenges they may be facing. Providing access to mental health resources, such as counselling services and stress management workshops, can also make a significant difference. Encouraging a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible working hours and ensuring that staff take their entitled breaks and annual leave is another essential aspect of maintaining mental health.

Creating a supportive work environment where mental health is openly discussed and where seeking help is encouraged without stigma is fundamental.

Additionally, training for managers and staff on recognising signs of mental health issues and offering appropriate support can further enhance the overall well-being of the team.

As we observe Mental Health Day, let’s remember that the well-being of social care professionals is as critical as the care they provide. By prioritising mental health in the workplace, organisations not only support their staff but also ensure that they are better equipped to support those in their care.

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, you are not alone, and there are places you can go to get help. Click here for details on services and organisations that offer help and support directly to those struggling with mental health problems.

If you’re passionate about helping others and want to make a difference in your community, becoming a social worker might be the perfect career path for you. Social workers play a crucial role in supporting individuals, families, and communities by addressing various social issues, including mental health, poverty, abuse, and addiction.  

Our blog will guide you through the steps to becoming a social worker, from education to licensure, and provide tips to help you succeed in this rewarding field. 

Understand What Social Workers Do 

Before diving into the steps, it’s essential to understand the role of a social worker. Social workers provide support to people facing challenges, helping them access resources, cope with difficulties, and improve their overall well-being. They work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and government agencies. Social workers may specialise in different areas, such as child welfare, healthcare, or substance abuse, depending on their interests and the needs of their community. 

Meet the Educational Requirements 

To become a qualified social worker in the UK, you’ll need to complete a recognised degree in social work. Here are the key educational steps: 

• Undergraduate Degree: The most common route is to complete a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Social Work. These degrees typically take three years of full-time study and include paid placements. 

• Postgraduate Degree: If you already have an undergraduate degree in another subject, you can pursue a master’s degree in social work, which usually takes two years. 

• Integrated Degree Apprenticeship: Another option is the Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship, which allows you to earn a degree while gaining practical experience on the job. This route is particularly appealing if you want to earn while you learn. 

Gain Practical Experience 

Social work is a hands-on profession, so gaining practical experience is crucial. During your degree, you’ll undertake several placements where you’ll work in real-world social work settings under the supervision of qualified professionals. These placements are essential for developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the field. 

Additionally, volunteering or working in related fields, such as youth work, mental health support, or community outreach, can provide valuable experience and help you in your future career. 

Register with a Regulatory Body 

In the UK, social workers must be registered with the relevant regulatory body to practice legally. See below for a list of regulatory bodies within the UK: 

• England: Social Work England 

• Scotland: Scottish Social Services Council  

• Wales: Social Care Wales 

• Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Social Care Council  

To register, you’ll need to: 

• Have completed a recognised social work degree. 

• Pass background checks: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required to ensure the safety of the vulnerable people you’ll work with. 

• Maintain registration: Once registered, you’ll need to keep your registration up to date by engaging in continuous professional development (CPD) and adhering to the code of conduct. 

Apply for Social Work Positions 

With your degree and registration in hand, you can start applying for social work jobs! Social workers are employed in various settings, including local authorities, the NHS, schools, charities, as well as private organisations. Job roles can vary, so consider what area of social work interests you most—whether it’s working with children, families, the elderly, or people with disabilities. It’s a good idea to research into this beforehand, but your experiences in placements and voluntary work will give you a better understanding of which field is best for you! 

Continue Professional Development 

Social work is a constantly evolving field, and therefore ongoing learning is essential! Engage in continuous professional development (CPD) to stay updated on best practices, legal requirements, and new approaches to social work. CPD can include attending workshops, taking additional courses, and participating in professional networks. Your employer will encourage you to do this, but don’t be afraid to seek it out yourself too! 

Consider Specialising 

As you gain experience, you may choose to specialise in a particular area of social work, such as mental health, child protection, or substance abuse. Specialising can open advanced career opportunities and allow you to focus on the areas you are most passionate about. 

Social work is a challenging but incredibly rewarding career. By becoming a social worker, you can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and communities. The journey requires dedication, empathy, and a commitment to social justice, but the reward of helping others is immeasurable. 

By following these steps, you will be well on your way to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.  

Get in touch with Pertemps Social Care 

For guidance on the key subjects to study for a successful career in social work, get in touch today and one of our specialists can provide answers to any questions you may have. 

At Pertemps Social Care, we recognise that adult social workers are dedicated to enhancing the well-being, independence, and quality of life for the individuals they support.

They support many people with complex needs, including physical disabilities, mental health issues, learning disabilities, age-related conditions, and other vulnerabilities.

Among these, individuals with acquired brain injuries often require specialised attention.

Some local authorities have specialist resources: Leeds City Council, for example, provides specialist support for individuals with brain injuries through its Integrated Commissioning Executive and Adult Social Care teams. In Manchester and Hampshire, people with brain injuries can access specialist services through social care teams, including specific rehabilitation support. Several London boroughs, including Camden, Islington, and Southwark have specialist teams or social workers dedicated to brain injury rehabilitation and support.

The critical role of specialist brain injury social workers

Specialist brain injury social workers are essential in supporting individuals who have sustained brain injuries, as well as their families. Their role is multifaceted, including direct support, advocacy, service coordination, and education.

Assessment and intervention

Social workers play a vital role in the assessment and treatment of people with acquired brain injuries. It’s a complex and often hidden disability that can significantly impact cognitive, emotional, and social functioning and can be hard to diagnose, or mistaken for other conditions.

Individuals can appear to be egocentric or self-centred.

Many survivors experience a range of cognitive, behavioural, psychological, and physical disabilities, leading to impaired social competence. This often presents as disinhibited speech, impulsivity, poor social skills, and judgment. Individuals can appear to be egocentric or self-centred, usually unintentionally. These traits can destabilise relationships and make it difficult for them to form new connections. Consequently, many survivors face social isolation, depression, and a diminished quality of life. Barriers to returning to work or finding employment can further exacerbate these issues, leading to reduced income and reliance on the benefits system. Social work support can be pivotal in avoiding this downward spiral.

Targeted, specialist support

Brain injury social work teams provide crucial support throughout the brain injury care pathway, from the acute stage and sub-acute inpatient rehabilitation to community reintegration.

Managing family distress and expectations

Social workers understand that family members often experience significant distress due to the impairment, disability, and behavioural and personality changes that follow a brain injury. The impact can be devastating, and some people underestimate the disability and hold unrealistic expectations in terms of recovery.

Supporting families is essential, as they often become the primary lifelong support network for the brain injury survivor. Social workers can help families adjust, raising awareness, and offering behavioural management strategies, with support from a wider multidisciplinary team.

Brain injury teams offer information, emotional support, referrals, signposting, and community care assessments to meet ongoing needs. Their goal is to maximise the brain injury survivor’s potential and support their continued adjustment. Specialist social workers are integral to this process, as they play a pivotal role amongst health professionals and social care providers.

Training and support for social workers

Social workers have a unique opportunity to advocate for the people they support. To do this effectively, they need appropriate training and support to recognise brain injuries, understand their consequences, and address the resulting care needs.

Becoming a specialist brain injury social worker involves a combination of education, experience, and specialised training.

Pathway to becoming a specialist brain injury social worker

Becoming a specialist brain injury social worker involves a combination of education, experience, and specialised training:

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Engage in CPD activities focused on brain injury, such as workshops, seminars, and short courses offered by organisations like the Brain Injury Social Work Group (BISWG) or Headway.
• Specialist Courses: Consider enrolling in courses on acquired brain injury or traumatic brain injury. Some universities and other organisations offer specific modules or certifications in brain injury rehabilitation.

Gaining experience in brain injury

Pursue roles that focus on brain injury, such as positions in hospital neurorehabilitation units, community brain injury services, or specialised brain injury charities and organisations. Volunteering or internships in brain injury rehabilitation centres can also provide valuable experience and insights into this area.

St Helens is one of the most deprived local authorities in England. There are challenges, but the past few years have seen a number of significant wins – certainly more than just green shoots of progress.

Award winning council

Hot on the tail of its success at the prestigious 2023 MJ award for its whole-council approach to bridging the inequalities divide in the town, the council has launched a four-year plan which will prioritise health and wellbeing improvements and further reduce inequalities.

The common thread running through the plan is about harnessing opportunities for everyone to make that fresh start in life and begin to thrive.

The People’s Plan outlines the aim to increase the number of active adults and raise aspirations of children and young people.

Four priorities

Social workers will surely welcome the four touch points, which intersect the work they do to support children, families and vulnerable adults, to empower them and help them live independent and satisfying lives:

• Start well
• Live well
• Age well
• Partner priorities (all ages)

Quoted in St Helens Star, Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Integrated Health and Social Care, said: “The People’s Plan 2024-27 has been developed in collaboration with partners and can be seen as a continuation of our integration journey.

“Our ‘One Place, One System, One Ambition’ vision to improve people’s lives in St Helens remains the same, our four priorities are consistent – however we have widened the scope by including objectives that span the life-course of people, making a more comprehensive plan that provides better alignment with council priorities and the objectives of NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, with the aim of improving the health of the whole population and reducing inequalities.”

Click here to read the St Helens People’s Plan 2024-27 in full.

Nestled in the north west of England is St Helens, a vibrant and welcoming community that prides itself on providing exemplary care for its children and young people. With Ofsted rating its Children’s Services as GOOD and services for young people leaving care as OUTSTANDING, St Helens is a beacon of excellence in social care.

If you’re a children’s social worker looking to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families in the north west, you could do a lot worse than taking advantage of the opportunities and lifestyle on offer.

St Helens Children’s Social Care is on an ambitious journey towards excellence. “Being Brilliant at the Basics” drives them to achieve outstanding status in all facets of their work. And they need more passionate individuals to join them. With a stable and supportive workforce, the council is looking for social workers who are committed to advocating for children and ensuring their well-being. They’re also committed to making sure their people have room to grow and build fulfilling careers – and ensuring caseloads are manageable is one way to make that happen.

Putting Children First

At St Helens Children’s Social Care, the voice of the child is at the heart of everything. Needs and aspirations are prioritised, shaping services to provide holistic support and advocacy. Through regular health checks and insightful videos created by staff, they ensure the approach remains child-centred, and that the culture is compassionate and understanding.

Living in St Helens

Beyond its exceptional social care services, St Helens offers an idyllic setting for individuals and families. From quaint villages to modern suburban developments, the borough caters to diverse lifestyles and preferences. The area is served by outstanding schools and colleges, and the proximity to major cities like Liverpool and Manchester, and excellent transport links, ensures connectivity and accessibility for residents.

Recreation and Leisure

St Helens boasts a vibrant leisure scene, catering to diverse interests. Sports enthusiasts can cheer for the legendary rugby league team, Saints, or enjoy horse racing at the esteemed Haydock Park racecourse. The borough’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through arts venues, museums, and iconic installations like Dream, a testament to St Helens’ industrial legacy and future aspirations.

Housing and Lifestyle

With a range of housing options, from period properties to modern residential buildings, St Helens offers something for everyone. The demand for new-build homes emphasises its appeal as a prime location for families and individuals alike. St Helens retains its charm as a green and welcoming community, providing an ideal backdrop for individuals to thrive personally and professionally.

St Helens is a shining example of excellence in children’s social care, complemented by a vibrant lifestyle and community spirit. For those seeking to make a difference in the lives of children and families while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle, St Helens stands with open arms, offering a nurturing environment where professional aspirations and personal well-being converge seamlessly.