Hi
I am based in Ireland and I am currently studying a one year course in applied social studies. This will leave me with a FETAC Level 5 award at the end which is the equivalent of a NVQ Level 3 award in the UK. I have a degree in an unrelated field from when I studied previously and I currently volunteer with a low threshold homeless hostel in Dublin City Centre so I have some experience as well as my studies. I am interested in working in the UK and was hoping for some feedback in relation to some things that I had read or heard about working in social care in the UK.
From looking at job specs for some vacancies I've seen online, it would appear that for some positions like project worker, you don't need a third level qualification to apply? It looks like previous work experience is enough and any further training and support needed would be provided on the job. Is this the case with alot of social care jobs in the UK or are they steadfast in their requirement for a degree qualification like most organisations are here in Ireland?
I've also been told that there is an excellent suport network within social care organisations in the UK because a lot of them are affiliated with the NHS whereas here in Ireland there is not that type of support. Is there much opportunity for on the job training and progression once you have been employed by an organisation?
I know that the answers won't be the same for everyone as everyone has a different story to tell but any feedback would be great as I am seriously considering applying for jobs in the UK as the job opportunities and possibility of progression within those jobs seem to be much more favourable than those here in Ireland.
Thanks
C