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Are you feeling burnt out in statutory child and family social work but donât want to leave social work altogether? Youâre not alone. Many social workers reach a point where the long hours, high caseloads, and emotional strain become overwhelmingâbut that doesnât mean you have to give up on the profession you love.
In this episode, we revisit the four types of career pivot (see episode 1), and focus on the first career pivot, within the same career and same industry: Staying in social work but changing roles within statutory social work. We break down the key factors that might be contributing to your stressâwhether itâs poor management, toxic organisational culture, or a mismatch between your skills and your current role.
Tune in as we discuss:
â How to identify the real source of your burnout
â The difference between a bad role and a bad work environment
â Alternative statutory roles that might better align with your strengths
â Practical steps to explore new opportunities within statutory social workIf youâre questioning whether youâre âcut out for thisâ, this episode will help you take a step back, reflect on your options, and plan your next move with confidence.
đ§ Subscribe now and share this episode with a fellow social worker who needs to hear it! Letâs reimagine sustainable careers in social workâwithout the burnout.
Links:
Episode 1: What is a Career Pivot? Check it out: https://open.spotify.com/episode/77S7bSpNrDXRoJjsjvzq55?si=4f362ee4847e4e9c
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, we explore why volunteering can be a game-changer for social workers looking to expand their skills, build networks, and even pivot their careers.
Many social workers underestimate the value of trusteeship and volunteering, yet these roles provide opportunities to gain governance experience, influence decision-making, and develop leadership skills that can open doors to new career paths. Whether you're considering a move into independent practice, policy work, or a leadership role, volunteering offers a low-risk way to explore new opportunities while making a meaningful impact.
We discuss:
đč Why social workers make great trustees and board members
đč How volunteering can build credibility and leadership experience
đč Real-life examples of social workers who used volunteering to pivot their careers
đč Practical steps to find the right trustee or volunteering opportunityWant to explore trustee roles and volunteering opportunities?
đč Find trustee vacancies: Reach Volunteering
đč Learn about becoming a trustee: The Charity Commission
đč Discover volunteer roles: Do-it.orgLinks mentioned in this episode:
Association of Child Protection Professionals: https://www.childprotectionprofessionals.org.uk/child-abuse-review/get-involved/
Writing online guidance - Ship for 30: https://www.ship30for30.com/
Want to know more about coaching? Check out this episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3vYJIXVAb5sIoZwAjH6vQA?si=4533f98081dc44be
If youâre thinking about your next career move, this episode is packed with practical advice on how volunteering can accelerate your journey. Tune in now and take the next step in your career growth!
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, Iâm joined by Sarah Cairns, a trauma-informed social worker with over a decade of experience across child protection, fostering and adoption, court work, and residential care in Scotland and England. Now balancing independent social work alongside a statutory role, Sarah shares her journey, insights on making the transition, and how she stays up to date with legislation, policy, and evidence-based practice.
We discuss:
â Sarahâs journey into social work
â The realities of combining statutory and independent social work
â Key training and specialisms, including DDP, Theraplay, and AIM 3 risk assessmentđ Helpful Links:
Practicing Social Work in Scotland â Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) Training â DDP NetworkAIM3 Risk Assessment Framework â AIM Project UKTheraplay Training & Resources â The Theraplay Instituteđ§ Tune in for practical insights and advice on making the transition into independent practice while maintaining a statutory role!
đ Donât forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with fellow social workers.
Letâs get started! đ
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, I sit down with Victoria Adepoju, a social worker, safeguarding trainer, and children's author based in London.
Victoria shares her journey from working in child protection to becoming an advocate for children's safety through literature. Her experiences led her to write No More Secrets Simi and No More Secrets Isaac, books designed to help children recognise and report abuse.
I delve into her motivations for entering social work, her transitions between permanent and locum roles, and her shift from children's social work to social work with adults. Victoria also discusses balancing her writing process with her employment and her family life.
Join us as we explore Victoria's inspiring journey and gain insights into authorship, and career transitions in social work.
Links:
Self-publishing, platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) offer tools to publish eBooks and paperbacks for free, providing direct access to Amazon's vast audience.
Victoria's books are available on her website, No More Secrets, which offers resources for parents and educators.
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, I sit down with Peter Buturo, founder of Bold Leap and author of Social Work and Beyond. With years of extensive and direct experience with children in care, Peterâs passionate nature speaks for itself. His own adolescence mirrored that of many children in care, and his caring and helpful personality led him to a career in social work. After 11 years in the profession, Peter recognised the need to prioritise care over profit and built Bold Leap on this foundation. We discuss his powerful motivation for becoming a social worker, his career journey, and his pivot to launching Bold Leap and writing his book. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about purpose, career transitions, and making a meaningful impact beyond traditional social work roles.
Links:
Peterâs book âSocial Work and Beyondâ: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Social-Work-Beyond-conscious-entrepreneur/dp/1781338663
Peter's company Bold Leap: https://bold-leap.com/
Peter's publisher Rethink Press: https://rethinkpress.com/
Peter's business coach Daniella Genas: https://bethebossintl.com/about/
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Thinking about a career pivot but unsure where to start? In this solo episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, Janet explores how coaching can help social workers gain clarity, make confident career decisions, and take action toward new opportunities.
Drawing from her own experiences with coaching, Janet breaks down the difference between coaching and mentoring, introduces practical coaching methodsâincluding the GROW modelâand shares powerful coaching questions to guide your career transition.
If youâre feeling stuck or ready for a change, this episode will give you the tools to coach yourself through your next career move. Plus, Janet shares exciting news about her own coaching journey and whatâs coming next for the podcast!
đ Follow The Social Work Pivot Podcast on LinkedIn and subscribe for more career insights!
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Podcast Introduction:Rougi started her journey in social work through the Frontline programme, where she honed her skills and passion for supporting families. But Rougiâs story doesnât stop there. Sheâs now on an exciting path to becoming a Systemic Psychotherapist and currently works as a Family Therapist within CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).
In this episode, Rougi shares her journey into social work, the motivations behind her decision to pivot towards systemic psychotherapy, and an insightful glimpse into what her work life looks like now. Whether you're considering a career change, curious about the world of family therapy, or just looking for inspiration, Rougiâs story is sure to resonate with you.
So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and letâs dive into Rougiâs incredible journey.
Episode links:Here are some helpful links for listeners in England considering a similar career pivot from social work to systemic psychotherapy or family therapy:
The Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (AFT)
https://www.aft.org.ukAFT provides information on systemic psychotherapy, training pathways, accredited courses, and career development in family therapy.The UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
https://www.psychotherapy.org.ukUKCP offers resources on registering as a psychotherapist, finding accredited training programs, and exploring career options in psychotherapy.The National Health Service (NHS) Careers â Psychological Therapies
https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/psychological-therapiesExplore career opportunities, qualifications, and pathways to becoming a family therapist or systemic psychotherapist within the NHS.Frontline
https://thefrontline.org.ukFor those interested in starting their journey in social work, Frontline offers a fast-track training program that can lay the foundation for future career pivots.NHS Education for Systemic Psychotherapy Courses
Check with your local NHS trust or academic institution for courses like the Postgraduate Diploma or MSc in Systemic Psychotherapy. Example institutions:Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust (https://tavistockandportman.nhs.uk)Kingâs College London (https://www.kcl.ac.uk)British Association of Social Workers (BASW)
https://www.basw.co.ukBASW offers professional development resources and networking opportunities that can support social workers exploring career changes.The Systemic Training Institute
https://www.systemictraininginstitute.co.ukProvides systemic therapy training tailored for professionals looking to advance their careers in family therapy.Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Episode Description:
In this inspiring episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, Janet sits down with Angie Bartoli, an accomplished social worker, academic, and author of Becoming a Social Work Manager. Drawing on her extensive career and doctoral research, Angie shares valuable insights into the transition from practitioner to manager and how she found her passion in academia.
Whether youâre considering a career in academia, aiming for a managerial role, or just seeking fresh inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable advice and encouragement to help you navigate your next steps.
đ§ Donât miss this enriching conversationâlisten now and take the next step in your social work career!
đ Get your copy of Angie's book, Becoming a Social Work Manager, here:
https://www.criticalpublishing.com/becoming-a-social-work-manager
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Becoming-Social-Manager-Angie-Bartoli/dp/1915713757Follow the podcast for more stories, strategies, and insights to help you pivot and thrive in the ever-evolving world of social work!
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, we explore practical strategies to help social workers succeed in job interviews. If you're aiming for a role in statutory services, this episode covers the essentials to ensure you present your skills, communicate your experience, and emphasise your values confidently. Learn what to focus on in your preparation, how to handle common interview questions for social work roles, and ways to stand out by showcasing your unique insights and adaptability. With tips for social workers at every stage of their career, this episode will leave you feeling prepared, confident, and ready to make your next career pivot.
Resources & Further Reading:
- BASW's Careers and CPD Resources: https://www.basw.co.uk/professional-development â The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) offers a range of career development resources, including interview guidance, CPD opportunities, and tools to strengthen your professional profile.
Quick Tips Mentioned in the Episode:
- Research the organisation's values and prepare responses that show how your approach aligns with their mission.
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to competency-based questions, providing clear and relevant examples.
- Prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewer that demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and an understanding of the organisationâs aims.
Tune in for tips to boost your interview confidence and help you step into your next role with ease!Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, we welcome Priya, a seasoned social worker with extensive experience in child and family services across multiple countries. After moving with her family to Abu Dhabi, Priya returned recently to the UAE and has launched her own safeguarding company in the field. She takes us through the unique challenges of working in Abu Dhabi, sharing first-hand what itâs like to practise social work in a different cultural context. Priya also delves into her journey of shifting from an employee mindset to an entrepreneurial one, revealing the growth and resilience needed to turn her vision into reality. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on embracing change, overcoming challenges, and redefining social work in an entrepreneurial context.
Priya's website: www.pmcsafeguarding.comSign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this solo episode of The Social Work Pivot Podcast, we explore how flexible working can be the key to unlocking your next career pivot. Whether you're looking to shift into a new area of social work, transition to independent practice, or explore roles outside of statutory services, embracing flexibility in your work life can provide the freedom and space to pursue your next steps.
Weâll dive into practical insights on how to make flexible working work for you, featuring inspiring stories from social workers whoâve successfully made career pivots. Learn how to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with flexible work arrangements and discover how to use this approach to plan and execute a career change, all while maintaining balance in your current role.
If you're considering a career shift or simply curious about how flexible working can support your growth, this episode is packed with tips and advice to help you move forward. Tune in and take the next step in your social work journey!Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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On this episode of The Social Work Pivot, Iâm joined by Connor Appleton, a UK-trained child and family social worker who made the bold move to permanently relocate to Australia in 2022. Connor shares his first-hand experience of the culture shock that came with living and working in a new country, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities heâs encountered practising social work in Australia.
Tune in to hear Connorâs reflections on the differences in social work systems, his tips for making relocating to Australia to practise social work, and the personal growth that comes with stepping outside of your comfort zone. If you're thinking about working abroad or curious about how social work varies in a different country, this episode is for you!
The recruitment agency Connor used to find job roles in Australia: https://berecruitment.com.au/Facebook groups/communities â âSocial Workers Wanting Ozâ is a great one with lots of activity but, there are many.To explore different types of visas and costs - https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing - Note that Social Work is often on the Skilled Visa list (often reviewed)AASW (Australian Association of Social Workers/ equivalent to Social Work England) who assess your international qualifications for employment and migration purposes (via an online application) - https://www.aasw.asn.au/education-employment/international-qualification-recognition/
Connor Resources:
Work as a social worker in Australia:Connor's recommendations to learn more about Australia's history:
This is a good resource to learn about significant moments in Australiaâs recent history, which continue to shape to way that we work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities â notably the stolen generation and the peopleâs apology. There are also links to further reading material, youtube videos etc. https://aiatsis.gov.au/explore/stolen-generations This is a powerful documentary about the impact of the Voice referendum held in 2023, for aboriginal communities to have a voice in Parliament, aboriginal culture and how the communities differ across the country. https://ourvoiceourheart.com.au/Information about delivering an Acknowledgement of Country, which is usually made before all meetings in the workspace. https://www.indigenous.gov.au/contact-us/welcome_acknowledgement-countrySign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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On this episode of The Social Work Pivot, Iâm thrilled to welcome Laura Taylor, Independent Social Worker and Therapeutic Parenting Coach. With over 15 years of experience in child and family social work, much of Lauraâs career has been dedicated to working with children in care and supporting foster carers. She is passionate about trauma-informed care and enhancing the practice of parents, carers, and professionals in both home and residential settings.
Laura recently transitioned from statutory social work into independent practice, and in this episode, she shares her inspiring journey. If you're considering a move toward independence, stay tuned as Laura offers practical advice and insights to help you make that leap!
Laura's links:
The National Association of Therapeutic Parents: https://www.naotp.com/who-we-are
Dyadic Therapeutic Psychotherapy: https://ddpnetwork.org/professionals/training/To work with Laura:
Laura Taylor
Therapeutic Parenting Coach
Practice Educator
Independent Social Worker
07766 952559
Facebook: Laura Taylor Therapeutic Parenting Coach
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laura-taylor-36193b91
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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In this episode of The Social Work Pivot, I sit down with Karlene Ruddock, a qualified social worker who began her career in childrenâs services, working in safeguarding before transitioning to adults. She moved from permanent to locum work along the way and is now training to become an occupational therapist. Karleneâs story is one of determination and purpose. When she realised social work no longer aligned with her personal and professional goals, she made a plan to pivot and is now on a new path toward a fulfilling career in occupational therapy.
If youâre feeling stuck or dissatisfied with where you are in your career, Karleneâs journey will inspire you to take action. Itâs about identifying what you want, creating a plan, and having the courage to follow through. Tune in for practical insights and motivation to help you make your own career change!
To follow Karlene, visit: linkedin.com/in/karlene-ruddock-7285a0291
If you are interested in a similar career transition into Occupational Therapy visit: https://chooseot.co.uk/routes-into-occupational-therapy/
The Royal College of Occupational Therapy www.rcot.co.ukSign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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I had a great time talking with Pilar Cubelos in this episode! Pilar is a qualified social worker who entered the profession after a successful career in stone masonry. After gaining experience in statutory child and family social work, she pivoted into independent practice during the COVID pandemic. What's truly remarkable about Pilar's journey is how she embraced her strengths to carve out a niche working with Spanish-speaking families and developed a unique social work career that spans multiple countries while living in Spain.
I especially admire how Pilar has taken ownership of her learning and development right from the start, confidently recognising her strengths. If you're curious about independent social work or considering working overseas, this episode is a must-listen!Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Welcome to the next episode of The Social Work Pivot! In this episode, we explore the concept of career pivots, specifically tailored for experienced child and family social workers looking to make a strategic career change. Whether youâre contemplating a move up the professional ladder or considering stepping away from statutory social work altogether, this episode is your essential guide to understanding and planning your career pivot.
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Social Work Pivot! In this episode, we explore the concept of career pivots, specifically tailored for experienced child and family social workers looking to make a strategic career change. Whether youâre contemplating a move up the professional ladder or considering stepping away from statutory social work altogether, this episode is your essential guide to understanding and planning your career pivot.
Introduction:
Social workers are leaving the profession at an alarming rate. According to a recent survey by Social Work England, 65% of social workers exiting the register have been in the field for six years or more. These experienced professionals possess invaluable skills, knowledge, and experienceâassets that are being lost due to high caseloads, poor pay, and limited career progression opportunities. If this resonates with you, rather than leaving the profession entirely, consider leveraging your skills in a new way through a career pivot.
Todayâs episode is sponsored by The Pivot Society, a membership programme and community for social workers like you who want to move up or out of social work. As a member, youâll have access to our Community Forum, where you can share ideas and get support from other like-minded social workers in a safe space. Youâll also have access to a video library with essential skills to help you make your pivot, such as improving your CV, finding a new role, becoming an independent social worker, and exploring the best side hustlesâall available at your own pace. Plus, join our monthly live coaching calls for the opportunity to ask questions and hear success stories from other society members. Visit thesocialworkpivot.com to join the waitlist and lock in a special, one-off monthly rate.Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
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Tune in to this trailer to find out everything you can expect from the podcast!
Sign up for our newsletter Beyond the Caseload for more success stories, insights and resources to guide and inspire you in your career pivot: www.thesocialworkpivot.com
