An Introduction to Social Work

What is Social Work?

According to The Blackwell Companion to Social Work: Social work upholds an ethic of social relations caring, sharing, inclusive and forgiving.

International Federation of Social Workers.

The International Federation of Social Workers and the

International Schools of Social Work define social work as being:a profession which promotes social change, problem solving in human relationships and the empowerment and liberation of people to enhance well-being. Utilising theories of human behaviour and social systems, social work intervenes at the points where people interact with their environments. Principles of human rights and social justice are fundamental to social work"

Introduction to Social Work.

Social workers invariably work with a wide range of problems. These could be related to:
Low income Unemployment Poor housing Difficulties due to illness Disability Old age Relationship problems

Social Work Roles.

Some social worker specialise in certain areas of work:

Children & families Adoption & fostering Adults Mental health Sensory disabilities Physical disabilities Palliative care HIV and AIDS Drug/alcohol dependency Domestic violence

Quality & Skills.

Good communication skills Sensitivity Respect for peoples different beliefs and values Ability to prioritise and to work under pressure Organisational skills Advocacy skills Negotiation skills Knowledge of human growth and development Knowledge of how people interact Ability to work with individuals families and groups Ability to work alone and in teams Assessment and analytical skills

Care Value Base

The promotion of anti- discriminatory practice
The maintenance of confidentiality of information The promotion of individual rights and choice The acknowledgement of an individuals personal

beliefs and identity The supporting of individuals through effective communication

Values & Principles.

Social work is committed to five basic principles: Human dignity & worth Social Justice Service to humanity Integrity Competence
(BASW Code of Ethics)

Social Work Qualifications.

Prior to September 2003 most social workers completed a two year Diploma in Social Work Course.
Today most social workers have to complete a three year degree course. You can also pursue various post graduate courses such as a PG Diploma or Masters.

Course Content.
Social work is basically an Applied Social Science. Subjects that you can expect to cover include: Sociology Social Policy Psychology Law Organisational Management & Behaviour Research Methods

Course Content.
You will also be expected to develop an in-depth understanding of relevant legislation such as: The Children Act 1989 & 2004 The Equality Act 2010 The Human Rights Act 1998

National Occupational Standards.

All students undertaking courses that lead to a social

work qualification must demonstrate competencies in a number of key roles.

Key Roles
Key Role 1: Prepare for, and work with individuals,

families, carers, groups and communities to assess their needs and circumstances.
Key Role 2: Plan, carry out, review and evaluate social

work practice, with individuals, families, carers, groups, communities and other professionals.
Key Role 3: Support individuals to represent their needs,

views and circumstances.

Key Roles.
Key Role 4: Manage risk to individuals, families, carers,

groups, communities, self and colleagues.

Key Role 5: Manage and be accountable, with supervision

and support, for your own social work practice within your organisation.
Key Role 6: Demonstrate professional competence in

social work practice.

GSCC.
In order to practice as a social worker you must be registered with the General Social Care Council (GSCC).

Related Internet Resources.

British Association of Social Workers

www.basw.co.uk Community Care www.communitycare.co.uk General Social Care Council www.gscc.org.uk Guardian Society Pages www.guardian.co.uk/society Skills for Care www.skillsforcare.org.uk Social Care Institute for Excellence www.scie.org.uk Universities & Colleges Admissions Service www.ucas.ac.uk