As of 2019 there were over 2.3 million children growing up with a vulnerable family background. With the introduction of the pandemic and the ever-increasing difficulties it has brought, many of the less fortunate face a dire situation. Vulnerable families are at a greater risk from the virus and the many social restrictions in place. These people need our help more than ever.

Strong and ambitious graduates with a previous experience in helping vulnerable children or families have a perfect opportunity to give back to the community. Sutton is currently looking to hire a new wave of social workers through the established social work programme called, ‘Step Up to Social Work.’ Step Up To Social Work, is a fast-track, full time programme for trainee social workers and will last for 14 months. The programme particularly urges black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to partake as they are underrepresented in this area of work and helps to reflect the diversity of the people they are supporting.  This is a fantastic way to support our local community and help the less fortunate. The benefits can extend beyond this as it greatly helps those wishing to build a career around social welfare. Councillor Marian James, chair of the People Committee said, ‘The programme offers a practical alternative to traditional study and a direct route into the world of children’s social work.’ In addition, the programme is funded, so trainees will receive a bursary of under £20,000 for their training and have to pay no tuition fees. LBHF.gov.uk explains that, ‘The programme offers you a 14-month postgraduate diploma, enabling you to register as a qualified social worker, followed by a dissertation module to achieve a Master’s degree in social work,’ which provides a strong pathway for future employment. Further applications for joining can be found online.