by Adam McCulloch
So 40% of social work practitioners have, or have had, second jobs, according to our exclusive survey. Now that was a surprise to all of us here at Community Care. And perhaps I wasn't alone in feeling a pang of guilt. Clearly we are very lazy people with our nine to fives, and evenings free to watch the telly.
But maybe the survey is pointing to a future that will be shared by more and more people - the economy is in a state of flux and people are realising that their pension plans are never going to amount to much and their mortgage capital will never be paid off by the endowment policy or ISA.
Of course many social workers don't have and can't have second jobs; the survey doesn't indicate exactly which kinds of staff are likely to have other employment. Not that having a second job is necessarily a sign of desperation. Perhaps staff are doubling as semi-pro musicians, private tutors or doing a spot of carpentry - all life-enhancing occupations.
But the figures are a shock. The level of debt (40% in the red by the end of the month and 37% owing over £10,000 not including mortgage) is a strong indicator that we're all in for tougher times ahead.
You can help us
What we need here is some indication as to what kind of second jobs you are doing and how it fits in with your current role. Please e-mail simeon.brody@rbi.co.uk or contribute to the discussion on CareSpace our new discussion forum and community site for everyone working in social care.
This does not surprise me in the least. Social work pay (not to mention the conditions)is horrendous. I have a number of other ways of making up my income as do many of my colleagues. Believe me, none of us do it for fun!
Not too long ago a child I was transporting to foster care (in my own vehicle) threw a rock through a side window as I drove away. I was told by my manager that my mileage allowance should cover the cost. I had to find the cash to replace it myself. Like many I am looking for alternative or supplementary methods of generating an income.