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.