A welfare worker assists disadvantaged members of society in gaining access to social services that may be beneficial. Welfare workers, also known as social workers, work in a variety of settings, ranging from government agencies that set policy to offices that provide direct assistance to people in need. People choose to work in this field because they want to make a difference in other people’s lives, so the pay is typically on the lower end of the scale.
A bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field is required for employment as a welfare worker at the very least. People with advanced degrees are expected in many fields, with a Master of Social Work (MSW) being particularly useful. Because social work is typically a government position, job candidates may be required to take the civil service examination, and work experience may be considered as an additional qualification.
Members of the public can seek counseling from some welfare workers. They assist people in need in navigating the social services system, determining which programs they are eligible for and how to apply for them. Other welfare workers may be tasked with assisting specific people in need. A child welfare worker, for example, keeps an eye on low-income kids, assessing their living conditions and determining what kind of help they might require. When a child needs to be removed from an environment and placed in protective custody, the welfare worker can make that decision.
Members of the social services community can also interact with members of the general public and collaborate with private organizations that support social services and assist the poor. They may also serve as policy advisors to civic leaders and legislators, making recommendations. Welfare workers also serve as advocates for their clients, assisting them in dealing with difficult situations such as negotiating a lower hospital bill or finding a place to live in a region where landlords are notorious for discriminating against social service recipients.
Welfare workers are extremely knowledgeable about the social service programs available in their communities, and they are frequently required to attend continuing education courses to stay current in the field. They usually work in offices, and they must be adept at networking with others in the social services field in order to help their clients. A good social worker is compassionate, understanding, and knowledgeable, with a service-oriented work ethic.