Back to Career Atlas

SOCIETY, INTERNATIONAL & DEVELOPMENT

Social Worker

Supporting People Through Difficult Circumstances

Social Worker

Social workers help individuals, families and communities respond to social, emotional and practical challenges. They connect people with services while promoting safety, dignity and self-determination.

Key Outcomes

What this career leads to

  • Stronger support systems
  • Improved safety
  • Access to services
  • Community well-being

What They Do

On the job

  • Assess needs, risks, strengths and available support
  • Develop support or care plans with clients
  • Coordinate services and advocate for appropriate assistance
  • Maintain records and follow safeguarding and ethical requirements

Where They Work

Typical workplaces

  • Hospitals and clinics
  • Schools and child-protection services
  • Government welfare departments
  • Community organisations
  • Rehabilitation and mental-health centres
  • Humanitarian and nonprofit programmes

Core Skills

What it takes

  • Empathy and professional boundaries
  • Assessment and case management
  • Communication and advocacy
  • Crisis judgement, resilience and teamwork

Areas of Application

Where this knowledge shows up

  • Child and family welfare
  • Healthcare and rehabilitation
  • Mental-health support
  • Community development
  • Disability and older-person services

Education & Entry Path

The learning route

A recognised degree in social work is the standard route in many countries, often followed by supervised practice, registration or licensing. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.

Career Scope

The long view

Social workers may specialise in families, health, mental health, disability, community development, protection, rehabilitation, policy or programme management.

Related Careers

Kindred paths to explore

Explore Scientists’ Contribution

The discoveries behind this field