subject: Starting A Career In Social Care [print this page] A career in social care offers you the opportunity, not just to work, but to pursue a vocation. Because the work is intimately tied up in the relationships that you forge with the people and communities that you help, it can be much more mentally and emotionally rewarding than your average everyday office or retail position. Before you can become a social care worker, however, there are some things you will need to do to make yourself eligible for this career path.
Qualification
Social care workers in the UK must complete an accredited educational program before becoming eligible to work. There are many different programs available at the university level and they are open to people to all walks of life so whether you are a new uni student with a dream or a non-traditional divorcee seeking a new career there are social care degree programs that will cater to your needs. It is simply a matter of choosing, preparing, and applying to the appropriate one. Most of the programs available are part of three-year bachelor programs, but there are also masters level programs and even part time programs available. In order to be eligible for these programs, you will want to take some time to volunteer or even work in a social care capacity, if possible. It is a good idea anyway as it gives you an idea of the type of work that you are getting into before you go to the work and expense of accreditation.
Finding Work
Social care degree programs are heavily weighted towards practical experience so by the time you get your degree you will already be on the road to potential employment. Your work during the schooling process will provide you with a strong base in the field as well as giving you something to put on your CV. In addition, there is currently a strong initiative in the UK for the production of more social care workers. This means that when you get out of school your skills will be in demand. Once you have completed your tests and are registered, you can begin to look for a position in social care work. One of the best ways to go about this is to register with an agency that can put you in touch with open positions, but you can also research and apply to advertisements in local and trade publications. You will soon find yourself on the road to a fulfilling social care career.
