Graduate programme opens for newly qualified social workers

Portsmouth City Council has launched an employment programme for newly qualified social workers, just in time for graduates leaving university.

The Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) programme is designed to support graduates with a degree or master's in social work. This 12-month programme offers on-the-job training within children's social care.

For those seeking part-time training, the programme duration is extended to accommodate professional practice requirements.

Natalie Brahma-Pearl, Chief Executive at Portsmouth City Council, said:

"Leaving university is an exciting time for students as they take their next steps into the world of work. As part of their course, social work graduates undertake placements with local authorities to enhance their knowledge and skills.

"We work closely with universities in the area to encourage students to continue their practice with us, with many newly qualified social workers becoming long-term members of staff who go on to support our community."

Through mentoring, the ASYE programme supports practitioners to work in a child-centred way and to understand how trauma may impact the whole family.

The programme enables practitioners to develop their skills and confidence at the start of their careers, to work independently and within a team, which in turn, will help them build strong relationships with families that last.

Those who have started the programme have highlighted the support they have received from senior team members and the availability of resources to help them progress.

Portsmouth City Council has also introduced new employee benefits which includes newly qualified social workers receiving a £2,000 market supplement payment over 12 monthly instalments alongside an enhanced wellbeing and support package.

These new benefits are part of efforts to reward and recognise social workers amid national recruitment and retention challenges.

The employment programme is part of a number of routes into the profession with the Step up to Social Work programme, for non-social work degree students now open.  

Applications for the ASYE programme are now open. For more information, click here.