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North Somerset Council is once again supporting the government-funded Step Up to Social Work initiative. It enables people who want to become a social worker but don’t have a degree in social work to qualify on a fast-track 14-month course.
Applicants need to have at least a 2:1 degree in a subject other than social work. Those successful will receive a £19,833 tax free bursary while they learn.
The council is part of a regional partnership of 10 local authorities supporting the scheme in the south west. Together, they are looking to recruit a total of 50 aspiring social workers, with three placements on offer in North Somerset.
Applications for the course are now open and will close on Friday 24 March. The programme itself will run from January 2024 until March 2025.
Councillor Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for children’s services, said: “Our absolute priority for children, young people, their families and carers is to acknowledge them as experts in their lives. Social workers play a critical part in supporting them to make change, encouraging aspiration and securing good and stable lives. North Somerset is a great place to work and live and we have a strong learning culture that supports, nurtures and develops our social workers.
“Step Up to Social Work is a fantastic opportunity for graduates with a passion for protecting and working with children, whether newly graduated or those looking for a career change. The fast-track programme helps people to develop their skills, knowledge and qualifications ready to be a social worker.
“I’d urge any graduates who want to make a real difference to people’s lives to apply for the course before applications close on Friday 24 March.”
Find out more and register your interest at www.gov.uk/stepuptosocialwork.