# 5 Summary of Session 1

In this session, you have been introduced to social care and social work – two areas of social care practice. Through listening to Natalie and Robyn, you have heard about some of the similarities and differences between working as a social worker and a social care practitioner.

Social care professionals address a range of needs through their various roles, activities and the services that they deliver. You may have thought of more examples of the kinds of roles that are undertaken, particularly in more specialised areas of provision such as drug and alcohol services, services for offenders, or provision within health or educational contexts such as hospitals or residential schools.

Generally, social workers have a greater responsibility for assessing, reviewing and organising the delivery of services, which involves liaising with a wide range of other professionals. Social care workers are usually more focused on direct provision of care within a single setting, such as a residential, day or community service.

You have also learned about the role of professional regulation of social work and social care, considering how regulation differs not only between the professions but also across the nations of the UK.

In the next session you will explore how people’s experiences and environments shape their identities, and how this relates to social care and social work. You will learn about why it is important for social care practitioners and professionals to understand their own identities, and how this can influence their practice.

You can now go to Session 2.

OpenLearn - Introducing social care and social work
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