Letters have been sent to more than 230 schools urging students to say #Yes2SocialWork.
As Ucas deadline approaches, Northern Ireland Social Care Council urges schools to encourage students to study for social work degrees and look to ‘pathways to finding fulfilling and rewarding careers’ sent a letter.
The organization runs an annual campaign on behalf of the Ministry of Health to promote the benefits of studying social work to teachers, parents and social work students.
The magazine says a career in social work is “the ideal journey for those who want to support individuals, families, and communities, or who want to make a difference in society through their careers.”
Degrees are currently awarded at Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, South West College and Belfast Metropolitan College.
The Open University also offers an approved degree, but this route requires sponsorship from a social work employer.
Chief executive Patricia Higgins this week wrote to more than 230 primary schools across the North encouraging students to consider social work as a degree option.
“It’s not too late for students to say #Yes2socialwork and become part of the next generation in this profession,” she says.
“Studying social work gives you the opportunity to work with a wide range of people, groups and communities from diverse backgrounds, and there are many different settings in which social workers make a difference.
“Examples include supporting children and families, older people, people with disabilities or health concerns, working in treatment settings, working in the education, justice, volunteering and community sectors, etc. for children and adults in need. These include enabling, empowering, and protecting.
“If anyone is still unsure of what to include on their Ucas application, we are asking them to consider social work.
“This is an opportunity for young people who care about their community to begin a journey that makes a difference in people’s lives.”