An assistant social worker is employed to support a fully qualified social worker. In turn, they will help that person provide support to members of the local community, who may be in their own home, be in hospital or in a residential care home.
On this page are listed UK based recruitment agencies with knowledge and experience in providing assistant social worker staff.
The power of experience in this role can often overshadow any education or qualifications. As such, it is important to gain as much experience as possible, either paid or unpaid. There are many voluntary opportunities available across the UK which can help build a CV, and be rewarding in themselves.
Once employed as an assistant social worker, you can work towards qualifications such as Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care and Level 2 Diploma Health and Social Care, among others.
A driving licence would also be beneficial as clients may be spread across the local area. Anyone entering this profession will normally have to pass a Criminal Records Bureau check, to help safeguard the security of often vulnerable members of society.
Working hours can be fixed (9 to 5, 40 hours a week), or shift based, which would require working on evenings and weekends.
Salaries start at between £12,500 and £16,000 per year. This range can increase to £17,000 and £22,000 with experience. Additional responsibilities can bring salaries of £25,000 or more.