Public Sector

Social & Community Services

Opportunities within this area include: local authorities (covering both city regions and rural areas), community groups, charitable organisations and other public bodies. Many of these jobs are advertised through local authority and related organisations' websites and publications, as well as local newspapers.

Social workers are employed within local authorities' social services departments. Charitable organisations, such as Barnado's and the NSPCC, may occasionally advertise for social workers locally.

Typically, youth workers are employed by local authorities, churches, community groups and voluntary agencies. Organisations involved in youth work include: the YMCA, National Association of Muslim Youth and local Youth Services. Connexions Personal Advisers also work with young people (typically 13-19 year olds), giving advice and assistance with issues such as careers, education and lifestyle matters, and are employed by the Connexions Service.

Housing Officers usually work for local authorities, housing associations and other organisations providing accommodation. However, many local authorities are transferring the organisation of housing to other agencies within their region.

Advice workers can be found in a variety of settings, assisting clients with a variety of issues. Typical employers include: local authorities; the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureau, the National Health Service, universities and colleges and others such as trade unions and charities.

Routes into the sector differ and your University Careers Service should be able to give you advice on the best route for you. Entry for graduates often requires a postgraduate qualification and experience of working with people is essential. If you're looking to work in the youth sector, volunteering with a local youth or community group would be great experience. Your local voluntary action bureau is a great place to find opportunities within your area working with people from all ages and backgrounds and your Student Union may also be involved in local community projects that you can get involved with.

Useful links:

General Social Care Council

Social Work Careers

Care and Health

The Children's Society

National Council for Voluntary Youth Services

Connexions

YMCA

The Chartered Institute of Housing

Yorkshire Housing

Leeds and Yorkshire Housing Association

The Housing Corporation

The National Housing Federation

Shelter

Citizens Advice Bureaux

Advice UK