Opinion: All you need to know about being a social worker

Social work is both an academic discipline and a practice-based profession that promotes social change and development and the empowerment of people. Principles of social justice, human rights and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social work engages people and challenges structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing.

A career in social work entails working, largely alongside and with other professionals, to support individuals and communities in need, promoting their well-being, and addressing various social issues. Social workers play a vital role in helping people overcome personal and societal challenges. It involves a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities in need. Social Work is a rewarding profession that requires empathy, strong communication skills, and a dedication to social justice and human rights.

The BA(Hons) Social Work and MSc/MSW Social Work are the main qualification routes to becoming a social worker in Scotland. All professional practice courses are required to be accredited by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). You will also need to undergo a criminal background check so that you can register with the SSSC for your course.

Social work qualifications in Scotland equip social workers to work in various settings including local authorities, health care, education and third sector organisations assessing and intervening to support the needs of vulnerable individuals and families, including children, adults and older people. This can involve working in areas such as:

• Child protection which is a significant aspect of social work in Scotland. Social workers may be involved in identifying and addressing child abuse, neglect, or harm. They work with families, legal authorities, and other professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Social workers also provide support and services to vulnerable adults, including those with disabilities, mental health issues, older adults and those who are affected by homelessness. They assess their needs, advocate for their rights, and facilitate access to appropriate care and support. Working in mental health frequently involves working with other professions to provide support to help service users manage their conditions and access appropriate treatment. Working with people with substance problems is another important aspect of social work in Scotland helping individuals and families affected by substance problems to access treatment and support services.
• Working in justice social work (JSW) involves a range of responsibilities including carrying out assessments and providing reports to assist decisions on sentencing and supervising people on social work orders to tackle offending behaviour and its causes.

Some social workers in Scotland are involved in policy development and research to influence social policy and improve the delivery of social services. This can involve working for governmental agencies or research institutions. Social workers in Scotland are expected to adhere to a code of ethics, emphasizing the principles of respect, confidentiality, and the best interests of the individuals they serve and, as such is a value-based profession.

This opinion piece was first placed in The Herald on Tuesday 2 January 2024.