Hi
Just wanted to know from your experiences what is th normal time frame from first day of starting as a newly qualified social worker to be allocated cases and going out alone.
Piglet
I had cases before I got my desk, they told us at uni that we would 'hit the ground running'. I did and have'nt stopped in 4 years
I just wanted to add that it is important that you do not allow yourself to become swamped in new cases. I work in Adults services and average around 30-35 cases at any one time.
Obviously you could not take on this amount of new cases all at once. Be strong and only take on what you can cope with. I know that this might be easier in Adults rather than Childrens Services.
Good Luck!!
Check whether your LA has a NQSW policy for managed or protected caseloads. I had cases within 24 hours of starting my first job (adult learning disabilities), expanded to 25 within 2 months, 35 within 3 months, then I put my foot down and refused any more. Just remember to stand your ground where possible - this is easier said than done when you're a NQSW, I know.
'He that is taught only by himself has a fool for a master' - HST.
Once again I'm reminded how lucky I am to work where I do (v. supportive CP/court team) I had a 2 week induction and got my first case a week in (after begging the manager for a case to get started on!). To add to the 'don't let yourself get swamped' comments it is very difficult to do this as an NQSW, it's worth remembering that saying no to cases isn't a reflection on your competence/ability, no matter how much managers make it seem this way. I'd also try to get out with as many workers as possible, there's so much to learn from other's way of doing things (inc, of course, how not to do things!) . Joint working complex cases is a great way of learning, although it seems to be going out of fashion with the push to allocate cases.