What is a social worker?

Children’s social workers improve the lives of the people that they support, as well as their families.

Social workers change lives

Children’s social workers work with children and families at times when they need support, care and protection. Whatever challenges they are facing, social workers build trusting relationships and help families make positive changes in their lives.

Each year, children’s social workers in England support hundreds of thousands of children who do not have a safe and stable home. They make a real difference to children’s lives and to those of their families.

It takes a high level of skill, knowledge and judgement to do this work well. Children’s social workers draw on evidence, weigh up risks, influence decisions and advocate for children, all while showing empathy, resilience and self-awareness.

Child and family social work

Life can be hard, and many families need support. Children’s social workers take the lead in assessing family situations and providing help, often when families face complex challenges. They:

• Intervene at moments of crisis to protect children and provide support
• Work closely with families to create safety, stability and lasting change
• Collaborate with police, teachers, health professionals, courts and others as part of a team around the child

Social workers focus on relationship-based practice, putting children’s needs at the heart of every decision and prioritising meaningful connections over bureaucracy.

Social work for the future

Children’s social work is changing, and the future of the profession will be shaped by the people who join it.

Social workers trained through Approach Social Work gain the skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference for children and families while helping to shape the future of social work practice.

They are equipped to:

• Work effectively with children and families to create sustainable improvements
• Advocate for processes and systems that work better for children
• Lead and support colleagues, helping to build high-quality practice and lasting impact

Through Approach Social Work, you’ll develop the confidence, expertise and insight to make a difference from day one. You’ll build the skills to keep learning, growing and shaping children’s services throughout your career.