Progression to social work employment

Social work as a profession has altered greatly during the twenty-first century due to the broader context of professional, organisational, social and political change and the impact that this has on the individual and society. There is now perhaps more guidance than ever for newly qualified social workers, which has been government driven to spearhead improvements in the support provided for them, particularly during the first year of social work practice. This chapter will explore the increased infrastructure of support and why this is so crucial for social work staff progressing from education into the complex, demanding and fast pace of the first year in social work employment.