The number of applicants from overseas applying for social work roles in the UK has increased by almost threefold, says Social Work England.
Data from its State of the nation 2023 report revealed that 1,684 candidates applied from abroad between 2021 to 2022 alone – representing a 175% year-on-year increase.
Over half of these applications came from South Africa, Zimbabwe and India, which marks an increase of 842 applications from these countries in comparison to the registration year of 2019-2020.
This spike in applications arrives as a result of increasing staffing shortages and pressures across adults’ and children’s services.
Social Care England is working hard to ensure all overseas hires feel welcomed and are supported to provide a safer and more effective service.
For example, there has been a more prominent focus on providing suitable accommodation, as well as supporting social workers with banking and offering information on local services.
“This is still in the early stages but hope it will make the transition to another country easier and help retain this group of staff,” one principle social worker added.
How do I register from overseas?
- Create an online account with Social Work England
- Show that you have a social work qualification that meets UK requirements.
- Verify identity, address etc.
- Complete relevant DBS checks
- Social Work England will ask for a £495 scrutiny fee at the end of the application process, in addition to a £90 registration fee.
- Provide evidence of your ability to communicate effectively in English (e.g. IELTS qualification).
- Browse our current vacancies!
Unfortunately, Social Personnel is not offering sponsorships during this time but our dedicated team can help you relocate if you have the right to work in the UK.
Good luck with your job search! Do get in touch via [email protected] if you have any questions.
carlette Isaac
The number of applicants from overseas applying for social work roles in the UK has increased by almost threefold, says Social Work England.
Data from its State of the nation 2023 report revealed that 1,684 candidates applied from abroad between 2021 to 2022 alone – representing a 175% year-on-year increase.
Over half of these applications came from South Africa, Zimbabwe and India, which marks an increase of 842 applications from these countries in comparison to the registration year of 2019-2020.
This spike in applications arrives as a result of increasing staffing shortages and pressures across adults’ and children’s services.
Social Care England is working hard to ensure all overseas hires feel welcomed and are supported to provide a safer and more effective service.
For example, there has been a more prominent focus on providing suitable accommodation, as well as supporting social workers with banking and offering information on local services.
“This is still in the early stages but hope it will make the transition to another country easier and help retain this group of staff,” one principle social worker added.
How do I register from overseas?
- Create an online account with Social Work England
- Show that you have a social work qualification that meets UK requirements.
- Verify identity, address etc.
- Complete relevant DBS checks
- Social Work England will ask for a £495 scrutiny fee at the end of the application process, in addition to a £90 registration fee.
- Provide evidence of your ability to communicate effectively in English (e.g. IELTS qualification).
- Browse our current vacancies!
Unfortunately, Social Personnel is not offering sponsorships during this time but our dedicated team can help you relocate if you have the right to work in the UK.
Good luck with your job search! Do get in touch via [email protected] if you have any questions.