Social work is a vital part of every community. Each region has dedicated agencies that offer essential services that look out for the well-being of vulnerable people. While the role is often associated with looking after children, there are lots of opportunities in this area that deal with a range of ages, backgrounds, and vulnerabilities. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a social worker.
You Will Need a Degree
For any sort of social work, having a verified, recognized degree qualification is an absolute must. There are some fantastic online social work degree options that allow for a more flexible schedule, and the routes in are all worth exploring. There will be a path that suits you, but there is a lot to learn and a number of experiences that you have to take on board before you will be eligible for an independent position.
Experience is Mandatory
The same is true of experience in your chosen field. Social work can take you to many different places, but wherever you end up will expect that you have some hands-on, interactive experience engagements before you get there. It will be a big part of getting to know whether you actually want to work in this area and provide some background for taking charge of a more autonomous position in the future.
Everything Takes Time
For this type of work, there is never a quick fix one size fits all solution. Every task and challenge that comes up requires a unique focus and bespoke arrangements. There are lots of support avenues, but just because something works once, doesn’t automatically mean it will suit the thing that comes along next. Impactful change takes time and that is why social workers need patience and compassion in order to make that difference.
The Days are Rewarding
The day in day out activities that a social worker carries out varies greatly. Whether you are working in a hospital setting, child focused environment, or working with vulnerable adults somewhere else, there will be a lot to do and many ways to make things happen. This is a highly rewarding role because you meet so many people and dive into a high number of circumstances that demand assistance in niche ways.
Looking After Yourself Is Essential
The flip side of this variety and high demand, however, is that each and every social worker is charged with ensuring they are also looking after themselves within that scope. Learn to recognize the signs that your mental health is suffering as soon as possible, and always take appropriate action so that you don’t step into burnout territory. This means scheduling days off, asking for support in the more difficult cases, and taking all of the training on offer to make sure your mind is up for the task ahead.
Becoming a social worker will open up many different career opportunities. These are the roles in society that impact real change and help those that need it every single day. As a voice for the vulnerable, just make sure you accumulate the right experience and education before you look for an independent position.
