Skyla: As a recent graduate, Skyla worried she didn’t have enough experience to apply but its your skills that count.
What we’re looking for
We’ve recruited over 1,000 trainees to our programme.
Joining from all kinds of backgrounds with all kinds of experiences, they are united by one ambition: to do something that matters.
Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion
There are no age limitations for our programme and we strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds including: people from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse communities, people with disabilities, people who identify as being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and men who remain under-represented in mental health social work.
Consideration of lived experiences of mental health
We are committed to the wellbeing and success of our trainees and encourage every applicant to consider whether this is the right time for them to apply.
The content of the course and the workload can be challenging, and we do not want anyone’s health to be negatively affected whilst on this programme.
Applying with a disability
We welcome applications from people with disabilities and are committed to making reasonable adjustments and addressing individual support requirements to ensure our trainees can take part fully in the programme.
Visit our reasonable adjustments page to find out more
Attributes
You don’t need previous experience in social work or mental health to train with us. It’s more important that you have the skills needed to thrive on the programme and as a social worker in mental health.
Choosing this new career you’ll be the type of person who enjoys working with people, works well under pressure and is confident in decision making and problem solving.
During our selection process we will the use the following attributes to assesses your skills.
Communication
The ability to collaborate with and influence a wide range of people, in person and through written communication.
You’ll need to communicate effectively and respectfully with people whose ability to communicate may be impaired by their illness. Advocating for them, a vital element of your role will be to collaborate and negotiate with other professionals and services involved in their care.
Relationship-building
Empathy and respect for everyone, with the ability to build relationships and understand differing views and perspectives.
You’ll need to develop respectful working relationships with people in your care and professionals in mental health teams, the legal system, and other services. Their opinions and values may differ from your own, but maintaining a non-judgemental approach is key to the role of a social worker.
Motivation
Personal commitment to transforming the lives of people and putting academic theory into social work practice.
We’re looking for people who are committed to making a positive impact through social work. Our programme is rigorous, and you’ll need a strong motivation to manage the training placement and complete the qualifying post-graduate diploma and master’s degree.
Leadership
The ability to act as a professional role model, demonstrate initiative, and encourage people to achieve their goals.
As a social worker specialising in mental health you’ll lead the coordination of people’s care, engaging with different colleagues and professionals to support someone’s recovery.
Adaptability
Resilience and flexibility, with the ability to work under pressure and deal with changing circumstances.
Social work is an ever-changing environment and you’ll need to be prepared for every eventuality, including crisis situations. Your work with vulnerable adults will put you under pressure, and require you to remain calm and patient in unexpected situations.
Problem-solving
Objectively analyse situations, using evidence, academic theory and clear judgement to find effective solutions.
You’ll have to make decisions under pressure, in complex situations often with conflicting or incomplete information available. You will need to apply your academic knowledge of legislation, policy, and social work practice, using clear judgement and objectivity.
Self-awareness
The ability to understand, and reflect critically on, both your own personal development and how your actions affect others.
You’ll manage a pressured workload and face difficult ethical judgements, so you must be conscious of professional boundaries and know when to seek support and advice to manage your wellbeing. You will be required to regularly reflect on your work, seeking feedback and engaging in continuous professional development.
Trainee tips for applying
Gina: A civil servant for 30 years, Gina wanted to change her career and move into mental health. Find out how she did it.
Beks: Working in mental health Beks knew this was the job for him, but was unsure about going back into higher education.
Eligibility criteria
Please use our eligibility checker and review our full eligibility details listed here to make sure you can apply.
To apply to our programme, you must:
Have an honours degree: 2.2 or above: In any subject except social work. This may be held or predicted to be achieved before the start of our programme.
Have GCSE maths and English: Minimum of grade C/4 or equivalent, in maths and English or English Language.
Have the right to remain and work in the UK: including access to public funds, for the duration of the programme.
Not be a qualified social worker already: Our programme is for people who are new to the profession.
Commit to study and train full-time, for two years: This is a rewarding but intense course, demanding your time and attention throughout.
Be able to drive: Social work requires a lot of travel, with home visits to the people you’re supporting. Your placement will most likely require you to drive.