International Careers in Social Work

Whether you’re a social work student, a social worker with ten years’ experience or someone looking for a social work job there’s no denying the sense of reward you gain from being associated with such a job and helping people.

From helping with adult mental health, child protection services and welfare to human rights issues and improving the welfare of those less fortunate, there are an abundance of reasons why social work can be hugely rewarding.

In most areas of the world, being a social worker is especially important; not only are issues such as human rights and child welfare complicated areas, but some countries may be not be as familiar with the appropriate practices as others. It is here that social workers come in.

The advantages of building international careers in social work are numerous. Working internationally encourages social workers to challenge their understanding of human behaviour in the context of a different cultural setting. You will not only widen your perspective and enhance your skills, but you will also gain insight into universal problems from peers and varying surrounding minds.

The international need for social workers is always great. Social workers are often involved in direct work with villages, orphanages, hospitals, refugee camps and schools. The work of a social worker is not limited to such areas; working internationally may mean that you're involved in supporting the efforts of national governments and organisations contributing to societal welfare.

You may be involved in influencing social welfare policies, information exchange, and technological assistance and research projects.

The job of an international social worker is an important one. Ultimately social workers working abroad help to rebuild societies in developing countries through managing projects and training others for the successful functioning of their country's societal institutions.

The work of international social workers is evident when looking at continents, such as Africa, that need the assistance of skilled workers to aid with epidemics, such as the Ebola virus. In such instances, social workers help to deal with mental health, survivors' welfare and educating and increasing the knowledge of others in order to contribute to battling the epidemic.

The need for every type of social worker in Latin America and the Caribbean is also evident in that many do not have access to healthcare, education or housing.

Social workers’ ability to see the world through different eyes is what make them valuable assets. Whether they're helping victims of natural disasters, working in hospitals or schools or working in war torn areas, social work offers an educational experience unrivalled, as well as a reward that is immeasurable. 


 
\