Being a social worker is about helping families and children. There are few careers as rewarding - or as demanding. So not surprisingly, it takes a special kind of person.

If you're looking for a job where each day is the same, solutions are easy to find and you never need leave your comfort zone, social work isn't for you. But if you want a job where you go home at the end of the day knowing that a child's life is likely to be better because of what you have done, you're looking in the right place.

The work will be intellectually stimulating and challenging as well as rewarding. Most social workers alter lives daily for the better, where else can you make such a positive impact on someone's life?

What kind of person can be a social worker?

Not everyone can be a social worker. These questions will help you decide whether you have the skills to be a social worker.

  1. Are you looking for a career that enables you to make a difference?
  2. Do you enjoy problem solving and grappling with complex issues?
  3. Do you want a job that is intellectually demanding?
  4. Are you good at collecting and evaluating information and sharing this with other professionals?
  5. Are you an empathetic person, with good people skills?
  6. Are you good at focussing on desired outcomes - ‘seeing the big picture'?
  7. Can you stay positive when things get tough?
  8. Are you motivated by protecting and safeguarding families and children?
  9. Does the idea of rebuilding families inspire you?
  10. Can you give people hope under difficult circumstances?
  11. Most of all, do you want to improve the lives of families and children?