Working in children’s social care requires commitment, resilience, and a genuine desire to make a difference. One senior social worker shares their experience of working within the sector, the route that brought them into practice, and the qualities they believe are essential for the role.

Working within a child and care team

Currently working within a Child in Care team at Suffolk County Council, this social worker supports children from the point they come into care, following their journey through the system until they leave care or are adopted. The role involves a broad range of responsibilities, including court work and overseeing long-term care planning for children in care.

This continuity allows social workers to build strong relationships and maintain a clear understanding of each child’s needs throughout their time in the service, providing stability and consistency during what can be a challenging period.

A varied journey into social work

The path into social work was not a direct one. After leaving school, this social worker worked in a variety of roles, including practical jobs and catering, before moving into residential care for boys. Working in residential care for almost ten years provided invaluable insight into the challenges faced by children in care.

During this time, a growing desire developed to have a greater role in decision-making and to better understand the reasons children come into care. This led to studying psychology and counselling at university, alongside conversations with colleagues who had gone on to become social workers. These discussions helped clarify that social work was the right next step.

Following completion of the undergraduate degree, Suffolk County Council offered a graduate route into social work, providing a structured and supported pathway into the profession

Training through a graduate route

The graduate scheme offered several key benefits, including being a paid route into social work, which was particularly important as a mature student. The initial year involved employment as a graduate trainee social worker, with a clear focus on developing the skills and experience needed for qualified social work practice.

The programme was designed to ensure trainees fully understood the realities of the role, with relevant and meaningful work throughout the year. Successful completion led to funded study for a two-year Master’s degree at the University of East Anglia, followed by the opportunity to apply for a qualified social work role.

This route provided strong preparation for frontline practice, allowing graduates to progress into qualification with confidence and a realistic understanding of the profession.

What makes an effective social worker?

In practice, integrity and honesty are seen as essential qualities for social workers. Children and young people value authenticity and consistency, regardless of personality or communication style. Building trust through being genuine is key to through being genuine is key to effective relationships.

Resilience is also critical. Social workers are frequently exposed to secondary trauma, witnessing difficult and upsetting experiences in children’s lives. The ability to manage this emotional impact while continuing to provide safe and effective support is essential.

Creativity and adaptability are equally important. Social work rarely involves straightforward solutions, and professionals often need to think flexibly, revisit plans, and work creatively with families and partner agencies to achieve the best possible outcomes.

A rewarding career in social care

Working in children’s social care brings challenges, but it also offers deep professional satisfaction. Supporting children through complex circumstances, contributing to long-term planning, and helping shape their futures makes the role both meaningful and impactful.

This experience highlights the value of supported entry routes into social work, the importance of strong team environments, and the skills needed to thrive in a demanding yet rewarding profession.

Read the experiences of our other Social Workers in the region here.

Image is illustrative and not directly related to this case study