Social work is a rewarding career. There are loads of jobs available to qualified social workers and it’s a profession where you can make a real difference in peoples’ lives. But what is social work? The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) has defined the profession as:
“…a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledges, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing...” (IFSW, July 2014).
Check out the animation below which summarises the real-life experiences and motivations of Open University social work students and graduates. Plus explore more with our free courses related to social work, which are listed below.
Try a FREE course
-
An introduction to social work
Learn more to access more details of An introduction to social workDo you want to learn more about the social work role and develop your understanding of some of the theory associated with social work practice? This free course, An introduction to social work, begins by introducing key ideas, values, the social work process and the skills needed for social work practice in the UK. You will then move on to look...
Level: 1 Introductory
-
An introduction to social work in Wales
Learn more to access more details of An introduction to social work in WalesRespecting the individuality of each person is a central value of social work but, as the term suggests, social work is not only about individual perspectives: it also takes place in a social context. Society, demography, geography, national legislation, national policy, and language all play an important part, both in the lives of service users...
Level: 1 Introductory
-
Digital innovation in social care and social work
Learn more to access more details of Digital innovation in social care and social workThis free course, Digital innovation in social care and social work, explores how digital technology has made a difference, both to the social care sector and people living in their own communities. You will also learn about how incorporating technology in the home and in community settings has a range of benefits to people's wellbeing and ...
Level: 1 Introductory
-
Social media and networks in health and social care
Learn more to access more details of Social media and networks in health and social careThe focus of this free course, Social media and networks in health and social care, will be on the concept of internet safety and the possible advantages and disadvantages the internet offers in terms of health and social care. It will also explore the ethical and professional issues associated with online social networks when working in health ...
Level: 1 Introductory
-
Innovation in health and social care: social and historical
Learn more to access more details of Innovation in health and social care: social and historicalThis free course, Innovation in health and social care: social and historical, focuses on digital technologies and innovations in health and social care and explores the types of innovations that are available and the impact this has on the individuals using them. You will also gain an insight into the potential advantages and disadvantages of ...
Level: 1 Introductory
-
Supporting and developing resilience in social work
Learn more to access more details of Supporting and developing resilience in social workWhat does it take to become a resilient practitioner in social work? This free course, Supporting and developing resilience in social work, will guide you through some important concepts. An understanding of ‘emotional resilience’ and ‘professional leadership’ will help to guide you through taking a positive approach to problems that arise in ...
Level: 2 Intermediate
-
Introducing social work: a starter kit
Learn more to access more details of Introducing social work: a starter kitThis free course, Introducing social work: a starter kit, provides a glimpse into some of the things that social workers do and looks at why and how social work is done. The course is designed for people who might be interested in and curious about social work practice. It will also be a useful initial resource for those who may be thinking ...
Level: 3 Advanced
Rate and Review
Rate this article
Review this article
Log into OpenLearn to leave reviews and join in the conversation.
Article reviews