“A social worker first and foremost”: The motivation and experiences of recently qualified social workers in posts not requiring social work registration in England

Abstract

This article reports findings from a qualitative study based on interviews with recently qualified social workers (within the last five years) employed in positions not requiring social work registration and qualification. It discusses the motivations and experiences of recently qualified social workers in posts not requiring social work registration and the issues that they identify as important in maintaining an individual and collective social work identity.

Emotions, Feelings, and Experiences of Social Workers While Attending to Vulnerable Groups: A Qualitative Approach

“…With regard to the reported resources for self-care, mutual support is virtually the only helping tool available to these professionals. In previous studies, professionals referred to social support as a key element [ 13 , 27 , 43 ] but did not specifically mention mutual peer support. Social workers ask for training and support in the face of complex social interventions, as proposed by different research studies that underline the importance of taking care, preparing, training, and supporting social workers in this regard [ 61 , 62 ].…”

“…The number of service users with very complex demands is quite high [ 11 ]. As a result, in daily practice, social work professionals find themselves in constant contact with individuals who are experiencing considerable social challenges [ 12 , 13 ]. Professionals are confronted with the task of promoting equality and well-being for individuals [ 14 ].…”

The struggle for social work professional identity in contemporary Zimbabwe: A study on abuse of the social work title

“…The United Kingdom -Social Work England. It is evident from recent publications and studies in the United Kingdom (UK), the United States of America (USA) and New Zealand that the social work title is fiercely guarded (Jones, 2018;Scholar, 2016;Worsley et al, 2019). In the UK, any qualified person who intends to use the title must register, even if the title is not in their job description (Jones, 2018).…”

“…Proper regulation of social work improves the conduct of social workers, protects clients and improves service delivery, among other benefits (Chidyausiku and Bohwasi, 2021; UNICEF, 2019; Worsley et al, 2019). In several countries where social work is a respected profession, the title of social work is heavily guarded (Jones, 2018; Scholar, 2016; UNICEF, 2019; Worsley et al, 2019). There have been attempts to improve the recognition of social work in Zimbabwe, but the value of social work regulation in the discourse remains untapped.…”

“…In the UK, any qualified person who intends to use the title must register, even if the title is not in their job description (Jones, 2018). Those having a social work qualification and not having the title in their job description whilst not called ‘social worker’ are also required to register if they provide related services as registration demonstrates a pledge to the ethical standards of the profession (Jones, 2018; Scholar, 2016). In the UK, the title is therefore restricted only to those with appropriate professional social work qualifications and they have to register.…”