Social Workers - Specialising in chosen field

[Suade7]

I have for along time been looking into becoming a Social Worker, I read that once you have graduated, you can specialise in working with children, the elderely or the disabled?

To people that have graduated as Social Workers, is this correct, can you specialise in your chosen field and which field have you opted for and what is it like?

Thanks so much in advance,xxx

[pinktwink]

yes you can specialise but a lot depends on the route you take . Best option is to do a masters in social work as this will enable you work in various countries as opposed to a diploma.
Predominantly starting out most people specialise in community care to gain experience allowing them specialise. In ireland social work is generic yet you can apply directly to work with children , the elderly, psychiatry etc. However in the UK services are not as seperate. Best to do a placement in a field you wish to go into.
I am in child protection and I love it tough and all as it is

Good luck

[steven15]

Thats correct.Now a days universities offering the MSW degree also arrange placements for the candidates.

MSW is fast becoming a very desired and appreciated degree all over the world.

[Rosetta]

yes, most Local Authorities have different Social Work Teams for different service user group, though how this is organised does vary from area to area.
Generally, the main specialism are Children and Families or Adult Services (Community Care). Within these two main groups there can be other specialist teams for example Youth Offending or Fostering and Adoption within the Children and Families umbrella there can be specialist teams working with mental health problems or the elderly. There are loads of other examples.

Have a think about it, and perhaps use your placements to get general experience which will look good on your CV. Remember when you graduate and apply for jobs you willbe applying for vacant posts so you are best being able to demonstrate transferable skills so its best to try and get placements that give you general experience rather than being in a very narrow field with only limited job opportunities.

Good luck, its a tough but great profession