Social Work (Social Worker)

Member Name: cezzybunny

Product:	Social Worker
Date:	15/09/09 (19 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Varied, get to work with people, pay is alright

Disadvantages: Very very very busy, sometimes difficult decisions to make

I'm a qualified social worker, and have been since I completed my BA degree in Social Work last summer. I'm working as a social worker for a local authority not, with vulnerable adults. It's a very interesting job, but it's also very full on... I've currently got a case load in the mid twenties, and when I'm at work I rarely get a minute's peace. There's always people to ring or visit. My caseload is really varied, and includes anyone over the age of 18 - older adults, adults with physical or learning difficulties, or mental health issues.

I originally became a social worker because I wanted to work with people, my degree took three years to complete, although if you have a first degree then you can just do the 2 year masters course. I got paid to do my degree - tuition fees were covered and I was paid a £3000 / year bursary. This has changed now, you can check out what the bursary is now on the GSCC website. The degree included 200 days on a social work placement.

After my degree, I was actually lucky and got the first job I applied for. I'm on duty once every four days, which means screening every referral we get, and responding to emergencies.

All in all, I really enjoy the variety of my work - I could be supporting someone with learning difficulties to employ a support worker, arranging carers for an older adult, helping someone apply for a grant to redecorate their flat, or I could be at the police station sitting in on an interview.

Sometimes I just wish there just wasn't so much work to be done!

Summary: A good career if you're patient and hardworking!