Social Work
In the social work field, responsibilities include planning and carrying out social work activities in various areas, including handling casework, family services, child care services, services for the elderly, youth services, rehabilitation services, community development services, medical social services, services for offenders, financial assistance and relief work, drug abuse services, employment services, etc. Usually the preferred degree will be social work, although degrees in psychology, counselling and sociology may be accepted. To practise as a social worker, you have to register with the Social Workers Registration Board under the Social Workers Registration Ordinance.
Guidance and Counselling
Work in guidance and counseling areas place a high value on life and work experience, and relevant experience is an essential prerequisite. Opportunities are usually in the public service (including education and health) and charitable sectors. Experienced professionals with the right qualifications can also find work in the health service, consultancies and larger health organisations.
Social and Community Services
In community services, you will be involved in reviving, building and supporting communities through services to individuals or groups that are often financed by local authorities and voluntary organisations. Providing good advice on matters such as housing benefits, consumer and legal issues and welfare benefits makes an important contribution to the development of individuals as well as communities and offers interesting job opportunities.
Positions/ Job Title Offered
- Social worker
- Assistant social worker
Job Nature / Typical Job Duties
- To handle casework
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To plan and carry out social work activities in various areas:
- Family services
- Child care services
- Services for the elderly
- Youth services
- Rehabilitation services
- Community development services
- Medical social service
- Services for offenders
- Financial assistance and relief work
- Drug abuse services
- Employment services
General Requirements
- A degree in Social Science majoring in Social Work, and is a registered social worker
- Relevant volunteering experience is preferred
- Good written and spoken English, good written Chinese and fluent Cantonese and/or Putonghua
- Have a genuine concern for people and a good understanding of the society and its problems
- Mature, objective, patient and tactful
Relevant Association / Useful Links
| Social Welfare Department, HKSAR | |
| Social Workers Registrations Board | |
| Hong Kong Social Workers Association |
(Source from The CUHK Careers Guide 2012)