Useful Links and Further Information

So you want to be a Social Worker?

If you want to be a Social Worker you'll need a few things first. This page will guide you to useful sites and give you some information to get started, whether you're a UK Citizen or you're currently living abroad.

Firstly you will need a degree in Social Work. If you're not sure what the degree entails or whether it is the right subject for you, follow the link for more information: www.ucas.com/students/coursesearch/

Currently 80 Universities offer the course and it is generally studied over three years, full time. Part time is offered at some establishments. The degree entails 200 days practical placement within a variety of settings.

If you have a Social Work degree but are not a UK national you need to have approval from the General Social Care Council (GSCC) for permission to practice within the UK. For more information go to the Department of Health website: www.socialworkcareers.co.uk/

The GSCC

If you are a UK citizen you will also need permission to work in the UK from the GSCC this is usually obtained after graduation... the GSCC is subject to annual fees so it is worth documenting the costs into your research.

International Students / Applicants must pay an application fee of £155 or £30 if you hold a certificate from the Central council for Education and Training that was issued between 1990 and 2004. There after an annual registration fee of £30 must be paid.

UK applicants pay an application fee of £30 then an annual fee of £30 there after.

UK Students pay a nominal fee of £10 for their application and £10 each consecutive year.

Need more?

The GSCC website is filled with useful information: www.gscc.org.uk/

UK Requirements

If you have permission to work in the UK from the GSCC and you live abroad, you will now need a working Visa. These are quite expensive so you need to be 100% sure you want to live in the UK and that you want to immerse yourself in the culture. As great as the benefits of working in the UK are, for people whose first language isn't English it can be difficult adapting. Often you will be required to prove you can speak the language effeciently before you will be accepted.

If you think this is the right career move for you then click the link for information on the different Visas available to you:  www.workgateways.com/working-uk-visas.html