Career story: social worker

What does a day in your shoes feel like? And what are the key skills that can make or break a career in your field?

We’ve asked a diverse group of Apolitical members to share their career story with us and the tips they have for junior public servants. In this article, Ose Olotu explains why it’s important to have the passion to care and support in their role as a social worker.

What is your current role and how do you spend your time on a standard day?

I am a qualified social worker. I spend my time screening safeguarding referrals that come through the council's front door.

What did you do before taking up this role?

I worked as a social worker in Lambeth, working in the community team, managing complex cases and completing reviews of service users' needs and existing care packages.

In your opinion, what are the most important skills someone needs to excel in your field?

Effective communication, report writing, Empathy, active listening, self-care/professional boundaries, patience, organisation/time management, professional curiosity, multi-agency working, prioritizing cases, honesty, appropriately challenging people.

What is your favourite part of your job?

Resolving issues that service users present, with a view to promote their wellbeing.

What advice would you give to new public servants who are interested in a career in your field?

Social work is interesting and challenging. You must have a passion to care and genuinely support people, otherwise, you will find it frustrating when dealing with complex cases.

Want to share your own career story with the Apolitical community? Use this form to let us know about your job.

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