How to Get Social Work Jobs in the UK for Foreigners
Social Work Jobs UK - Opportunities
Social work is a demanding but rewarding career choice, and the UK offers challenges that might be greater than those you have encountered so far. However, these challenges come with unique rewards and experiences you won’t find elsewhere.
Opportunities for overseas-trained social workers are strong, regardless of the economy. The industry is getting a lot of positive attention, and global impacts like the COVID-19 Pandemic highlighted the importance of social workers. Aussies, Kiwis, and Canadians are welcomed with open arms. The UK needs qualified individuals with great work ethic, energy, and a positive outlook.
The Shortage of UK Social Workers
The need for Social Workers remains high due to the UK’s ageing population, increased awareness of mental health, and social inequalities.
Opportunities for Qualified Social Workers
Both short and long-term contracts, as well as permanent UK social work jobs, are available particularly through specialist recruitment agencies.
Industry sectors where placements are usually available:
- Children and Families
- Elderly Care
- Mental Health Services
- Young Offenders
- Substance Abuse
- Schools
- The Homeless
Structure of the Social Care Industry in England
While most social workers in England are employed by the local government, vacancies also exist within charitable organisations from time to time. Social work recruitment agencies can help fill these positions across various sectors. Local government in England consists of County Councils which are located outside of London. Inside of London, the government is divided up into ‘Borough Councils’. There are 32 Borough Councils.
Usual responsibilities: Manage your caseload working out of various government institutions (such as police stations, hospitals, and municipal offices), ensure adherence to new legislative procedures, report writing, and attend case conferences.
How much can I expect to earn as a Social Worker in Britain?
In general, social workers in Britain are paid relatively well. A newly qualified Social Worker can expect approximately £27,000 – 38,000 per year. With time and experience your rate can rise to £39,000 – 50,000 per year. These rates are for permanent positions and vary depending on the employer.
That said, many overseas candidates arriving will be hired onto fixed-term or ongoing contract positions. Rates vary widely according to the employer however a guideline is £26 to £37 per hour depending on the position, your experience and location.
These rates are generous and will afford the average working traveller a comfortable life with extra money for travelling and a good possibility of building up some savings. For more information on ‘UK Money’ in general, including a ‘Living in London Budget’ see UK Money
Applicable UK Visa and Immigration Information
To enter the UK for work you will need valid immigration or entry status for that purpose. See UK Visas for more information. Working holiday visas, UK Ancestry Visas, EU passports and UK Right to Abode certificates will allow you to work in either contract or permanent jobs.
If you are a qualified social worker, whose qualifications have been approved and you have registered with the Social Work England (see below). Not all industries offer such an attractive option to overseas candidates, but the social work industry is in great need of qualified people, making sponsorship a viable option.
Please Note: It is much easier to gain employment if you have a Working Holiday visa, UK Ancestry visa, EU Passport or have Right to Abode. If you require sponsorship, it becomes much more challenging but from a practical point of view you will need to meet with employers, register with the Social Work England, and have experience that is in demand.
Click here for more UK visa information
Registering with the industry’s governing body – essential information!
To register as a social worker in England if you are qualified overseas, follow these key steps:
- Create an Online Account: Start by creating an account on the Social Work England website.
- Submit Required Documents: Refer to the pre-application checklist and prepare your documents. Failure to provide such documentation throughout the online application process will cause your assessment to be delayed.
- Verify Identity: Use the online verification service with your biometric passport.
- Submit Qualification Requirements: Show evidence of recent education or training, especially if you qualified more than 2 years ago.
- Pay Fees: Pay a non-refundable scrutiny fee of £495 and the registration fee.
- Make sure to check your online account regularly for updates and further instructions.
To learn more about the detailed process and fees, visit their official website here.
How much does it cost to get registered?
The annual registration cost is £90; however, the amount of registration fees is determined by the length of time remaining in the current registration period once your application is granted. For example, if your application is granted between June 1 to August 31, you will only pay £45.00
When your registration fee is due, you will likely to receive a notification through your online account and to prevent having your application closed, you must pay the fee within 10 calendar days of receiving permission. If you fail to pay on time, you will have to reapply to join the register. Fees can be paid using a variety of methods, including direct debits.
How long does this process normally take?
If all goes smoothly you could be registered within 60 business days. You must always check your online account and respond to any request for additional information within 28 calendar days.
How do I get the process underway?
It’s easy! Start by creating an online account at the Social Work England official website and follow these simplified steps.
Other British countries are also regulated and specific information can be found as follows:
- Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Social Care Council – www.niscc.info
- Scotland: Scottish Social Services Council – www.sssc.uk.com
The Social Work England official site https://www.socialworkengland.org.uk/ has essential information you need other than registration, standards, and concerns.
What you’ll need as a social worker in UK
- Proof of your qualification from your home country
- Registration with the appropriate professional UK body
- Some post-qualification experience is desirable but not essential
- For appropriate UK Visa or Entry Clearance, see the ‘Visas’ section
- Professional CV
- References relating to social work experience (if applicable)
- You’ll also need to organize your National Insurance Number upon arrival once
- Plans to travel to the UK, and a sense of adventure!
Social Work Recruitment Agencies
Most local government councils, programs, and charities in the UK use recruitment agencies to fill their vacancies, whether temporary or permanent. These agencies often enjoy working with overseas applicants, offering essential advice and assistance even before you leave your home country.
Did you know…
Thousands of overseas social workers travel to the UK each year to gain valuable overseas work and life experience? And there’s room for many more of you!
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