A social worker is someone who has been trained to help young people and their families when they go through difficult times.  Each social worker works with a number of different young people and families.

They will listen to your problems, and try to help your family work things out – if it’s in your best interest.  Try to give them a chance – get to know them and build trust.  It might seem strange at first but getting on with them will really help you.

Your social worker works for social services, and is there to help you during your time in care.  They will visit you to make sure that everything at your new home is going well.  They will ask you some questions about your new home and will also speak with your carer.

They will keep a record on your file to help us assess how well things are going – While you are in our care your social worker will keep a lot of information about you on your file (you can see this file if you give them notice, or by contacting the Children’s Rights and Participation Team, who will support you through the process).

Access to your social services file if you are in care or have left care

You can find out how to access your file from our leaflet.

What will my social worker do for me?

Your social worker will:

• work with you, your parents and carers to make plans for future.
• spend time with you – helping with any problems you may have by offering advice and support.
• go to all meetings about your care.
• listen to what you have to say, and help you put your views across at meetings and when decisions and plans are made.
• keep a record of everything that goes on while you are being looked after.
• be there for you if you want someone to talk to.
• make sure that you are being treated well by visiting you and your carers to make sure that you are ok and getting on well together.
• make sure you see the people you need, for example, a doctor.
• explain things to you and make sure you understand what is going on.
• help you to keep in touch with friends, relatives and family.

You should be able to meet your social worker somewhere you feel comfortable, and on your own – just ask them.

And remember, if things get tough, you can phone them if you need to talk. Your safety and happiness is your social worker’s number one priority.

When will I see my social worker?

If you are staying with foster carers, your social worker will visit you within one week after arriving at your new home, then at least every six weeks in the first year.  After the first year, your social worker may visit you less often, but at least every three months.  Your social worker should also visit you at any time if you ask for this.

Where will I meet my social worker?

By law, your social worker has to visit you at your new home from time to time, but other meetings can be in other places.  You can suggest a meeting place to your social worker.

What can I expect from my social worker?

You can expect your social worker to:

• make every effort to make sure there is as little disruption as possible to your education, by avoiding, whether possible, changes of school or home.
• actively encourage your parents to get involved (where it is safe to do so) in your life.
• set up a link between your school and current carers.
• be responsible for making sure that information about your education, health, home and achievements is provided at your review.
• be there when you need them.