Hi All,
I am currently about to start my second year of the Masters Social Work Programme and am funded by a council which will mean that upon graduation I will be expected to work for them for two years else pay back the money invested in me (30,000). However, since I signed and agreed the contract over a year and a half ago my circumstances have changed and I no longer wish to stay in the locality of the council I am due to work for. The deal is funded by the CWDC and I am desparately trying to get advice on my options as I really do not have the money to pay back what I have been given. I will qualify next summer have good experience and want to work in the statatory sector; just under a different LA to that who funded me in an area where my family and partner live. Does anyone know anyone or of someone who has been in a similar position or how it played out. I am hoping that as it is CWDC funded that maybe I could get a transfer to a different LA which is in need of newly qualified children and families social workers or with a high vacancy rate and work for them for two years instead so that I will not have this overriding debt although im really not sure if this is possible. Any replies, advice or knowledge would be welcome as I really would like to access my options and eradicate the worry that this predicament is causing me.
Hey
I'm sorry, I'm not going to be able to answer this question for you exactly, but I'm in the same position as you, but have a retainer paid to me directly by the council. I don't think I'll be able to work for them for the 2 years after they require.
However, I do have friends who are funded by the CWDC and interestingly they don't have to work for the council for 2 years after, they just have a guaranteed interview after they complete the MA. Which makes me think that maybe the council can't keep you there? Have also heard that it wouldn't be worth the council chasing up the money via court or anything, but not sure about that one.
I'm sure I read on here someone that someone didnt get paid for their months notice because they had been sponsored, so not sure but they might refuse to pay you your salary one month. Not sure though, speak with your union or BASW for some independent advice