Skip to main content
Careermash
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM SOCIAL SCIENCES →

Social Worker

Social workers help people and families going through tough times. They might work with children in care, people who are elderly, or families in crisis. Their job is to listen, understand what's needed, and connect people to support and services that can really help.

Social Worker

8

Social Sciences

AI IMPACT
AI EXPOSURE TODAY8
20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST48%
THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB
STARTING PAY£25,000 - £30,000
REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

This job holds up well against AI
AI exposure today is low on our index (8), and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.

The role

As a social worker, you are there for people when life gets difficult. You meet with families and individuals, listen to what is happening in their lives, and work out what help they need - whether that is help with money, housing, childcare, or coping with problems at home.

Most days you will write reports, make phone calls to arrange services, and visit people in their homes or in offices. You might help someone apply for benefits, find new housing, or plan care for an elderly person. It can be demanding work - you will hear about sad and difficult things - but knowing you have made someone's life better is very rewarding.

Daily responsibilities

  • Conduct assessments to determine the needs of clients and their families.
  • Develop and implement care plans in collaboration with clients, families, and other professionals.
  • Provide counselling and support to individuals dealing with trauma, mental health issues, or social challenges.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions and progress.
  • Work closely with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to coordinate services.
  • Advocate for clients' rights within legal frameworks and community resources.
  • Attend court hearings and provide testimony when necessary regarding child protection or welfare cases.

Does a degree help here?

A UK degree in social work not only meets the rigorous standards set by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) but also equips graduates with a deep understanding of the UK’s social systems and cultural nuances, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.