Advanced qualifications and good work relationships prevent Social Worker burnout

Social workers who secure advanced qualifications are more resilient and less likely to leave their occupation due to emotional exhaustion, according to new research.

Social workers who secure advanced qualifications are more resilient and less likely to leave their occupation due to emotional exhaustion, according to new research.
“As a general rule, we tend to find that candidates with advanced qualifications are more prepared for the environments we place them into than those without. They seem to have a better understanding of some of the frustrations they may face in social care as well as resilience to some of the pressures that reside in this area.” Says Martin Garratt, General Manager – BS Social Care.

Extra qualifications help build resilience and ward off burnout, as do good management, team cohesion, peer support and experience, a researcher at the University of Ulster found. The findings are based on a study of 162 social workers in Northern Ireland that is to be published in October.

Some study participants said they loved the fast-paced nature of their jobs and drew satisfaction from helping others live better. Others, though, said the non-stop stress and pressure were taking their toll. One said they are so busy they regularly go 12 hours without eating.

“Our candidates’ well-being is paramount to us; through the safeguarding and compliance procedures we have in place, we seek to educate, prepare and protect both our clients and candidates from common pitfalls in the social care employment realm.” Comments Mr. Garratt, “ Some of this research* points to the fact that having effective support systems in place helps to prevent this ‘burnout’ as does positive work environments and good relationships – all areas where BS Social Care actively plays a role.”

BS Social Care provides quality permanent and temporary recruitment services to employers of care services and professionals. We aim to provide information about issues that affect the workplace and that help social care workers stay at the top of their game.

* Martin Webber, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London