Council social workers highlight crucial role in drive to tackle recruitment shortage

Sutton social workers have today joined forces to speak about the crucial role they do in the community amidst the backdrop of the national recruitment crisis. 

Reports into adult social care and children’s social care have found huge challenges in recruiting and retaining staff across the UK. Gaps often have to be covered by agency staff, which puts additional pressure on already-stretched council budgets. 

During Social Work Week (17 - 21 March), the Council is spotlighting Sutton’s social workers as they share their career journeys and the impact of their work on people of all ages. These short interviews aim to demystify the profession and also encourage people to explore a role in social work.

More than 60% of the Council’s budget goes towards supporting those most in need, and social workers play a key role in working with children, families and adults to help them to feel safe and to achieve their goals. 

Nick Ireland, Strategic Director of People Services at Sutton Council said: 

“I’m so proud of our amazing social work and social care staff. They play a vital role in our society, but in recent years, recruitment has become a real challenge nationally. Social Work Week reminds us to take a moment to celebrate their hard work and commitment, and I would strongly encourage anyone who wants to make a real difference to their community to consider a role in social work.”

Siimoi, a Social Worker at Sutton Council said:

“Working with adults with learning disabilities is a privilege. As social workers, we come to people’s lives when there is a need and support them by working in partnership with them. Seeing their journey and their goals being fulfilled gives me a sense of satisfaction as a social worker that I am able to advocate for and empower people.”

The Council has recently launched a new recruitment portal called “Grow at Sutton” to address the shortage of social workers and other hard to fill roles. Find out more at https://careers.sutton.gov.uk

Social work interviews can be viewed on the Council’s LinkedIn page and YouTube.