Introduction
The social service industry includes a variety of occupations that focus on helping people to improve their social quality of life. People working in these occupations may work in residential and non-residential services. Employment opportunities for social services employees are partly influenced by societal changes. These changes include: greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues; an increase in the number of people experiencing emotional, psychological and social problems; and greater willingness to seek help for those problems.
The role of A Social Worker
Social Workers provide advice, advocacy and support to people with personal and social problems. They also help with community and social issues. Social workers work in schools, hospitals, homes, marae. Government agencies and in the community. They may also work in residential centres and Courts. Many Social Workers travel around their local area to visit people in their homes.
Use your "people skills" to become a Social or Community Worker. Good listening skills and a caring personality are important attributes for a career in social sciences and employment opportunities in these professions are very good.
Mental Health
Mental Health support workers carry out a supportive relationship with people who have been or are experiencing mental illness. They support clients/tangata whai ora to develop and implement individual lifestyle or support plans. Mental health support workers work in a collaborative manner alongside clients/tangata whai ora (and sometime their whanau, family and friends) to support them in their recovery. Mental health support workers work within a framework for practice informed by Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ethical standards, health standards, service specifications and legislation.