You could do a level 3 diploma in health and social care or children and young people's workforce.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
Family support workers help families who are experiencing difficulties, providing practical and emotional support to improve outcomes for children and young people. Their work involves visiting families at home, helping them access services, offering advice on parenting, and supporting them in dealing with a range of issues such as housing, mental health, and domestic abuse. Family support workers often work closely with social workers, teachers, and healthcare professionals. The role requires excellent communication skills, patience, and empathy, as well as the ability to handle sensitive situations. You usually need a qualification in social care, childcare, or a related field, and experience working with children or families is highly valued.
Family support workers in the UK typically earn between £19,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are around 20,000 family support worker roles across the UK, with steady demand in local authorities, charities, and schools.
Most family support workers work 37 to 40 hours per week, and may occasionally need to work evenings or weekends.
Works closely with families experiencing challenges, offering targeted support to prevent issues from escalating and helping children achieve their potential.
Supports parents by providing guidance and practical help, often working in schools or community settings to improve family wellbeing.
Specialises in assisting young people who care for family members, ensuring they receive guidance, emotional support, and access to services.
Start by obtaining GCSEs, especially in English and Maths, as these are often required for further study or entry-level jobs.
Most employers will expect you to have at least GCSEs at grades 4 or above in English and Maths. These subjects are important for communication and practical tasks you will need in the role. If you have not achieved these yet, you can take them at your local college or as adult learning courses.
Study a college course such as a Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care or Children and Young People's Workforce.
These courses provide essential knowledge about working with children, families, and vulnerable people. You will learn about safeguarding, communication, and child development. Many colleges offer work placements as part of the course, giving you valuable experience.
Volunteer with family support services, youth groups, schools, or charities to gain hands-on experience.
Practical experience is highly valued by employers. Volunteering with organisations such as Sure Start centres, family support charities, or local authorities can help you build relevant skills. You might also find part-time jobs in after-school clubs or children's centres.
Look for jobs such as support worker, teaching assistant, or care assistant to build your experience.
Entry-level jobs help you understand the needs of families and children while developing your communication and problem-solving skills. You can find these roles advertised on local authority websites, NHS Jobs, or charity job boards.
Search for family support worker roles with local councils, schools, or charities.
Family Support Worker jobs are often advertised on local authority websites, NHS Jobs, and on charity career pages. Read the job descriptions carefully to ensure you meet the requirements, and consider the location and working hours.
Write a strong CV and cover letter showing your qualifications and experience, and get ready for interviews.
Highlight your practical experience, relevant qualifications, and any specialist training such as safeguarding or first aid. Practice answering questions about working with families, handling sensitive situations, and working as part of a team. Research the employer and be ready to explain why you want to support families.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Family Support Worker. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
The role of a Family Support Worker most closely aligns with the career of a Residential Support Worker because both involve providing in-home or community-based assistance to families or vulnerable individuals. They typically require similar skills in offering emotional support, practical help, and working within social services frameworks to improve family well-being.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a level 3 diploma in health and social care or children and young people's workforce.
You'll usually need:
An apprenticeship may help you gain the skills you need to become a family support worker.
You could complete a:
You'll usually need:
You need to have experience to apply for training or jobs as a family support worker.
You can get experience by volunteering or finding paid work with:
You can find volunteering opportunities listed on Do It and the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO).
You can apply for family support worker jobs if you have:
You can find out more about careers in support work from Think Care Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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