Overseas-Trained Social Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship and Relocation Support

Job Title: Overseas-Trained Social Worker Jobs in the UK with Visa Sponsorship and Relocation Support
Hiring Organization: UK Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, and Private Social Care Providers
Location: London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Nationwide
Employment Type: Full-Time/Permanent or Fixed-Term Contracts
Salary: £30,000 – £48,000+ per annum (dependent on experience and role)
Visa Sponsorship: Yes (Skilled Worker Visa)
Relocation Support: Up to £5,000 for flights, accommodation, and settling-in costs

Why the UK? Make a Lifelong Impact in a Supportive Environment

The UK’s social care sector faces a critical shortage of qualified professionals, with 1 in 6 social worker roles currently unfilled. To address this, UK employers are actively recruiting overseas-trained social workers to support vulnerable children, families, and adults—offering Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, relocation packages, and a chance to advance your career in a system that values diversity and ethical practice.

Whether you specialize in child protection, mental health, or adult services, your international experience is vital to helping communities thrive. Join a workforce where 25% of social workers are internationally trained, and your cultural insights can transform lives.

Qualified Social Workers (Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Support Available)

Our partner employers—including London borough councils, NHS mental health trusts, and leading charities—are seeking compassionate, skilled social workers to join multidisciplinary teams. These roles are ideal for overseas applicants with formal social work qualifications and a commitment to UK standards. Visa sponsorship, HCPC registration support, and tailored mentorship ensure you succeed in the UK’s dynamic care landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Case Management:

• Conduct assessments for children in need (CIN), adults at risk, or individuals with mental health challenges.
• Develop and review care plans in line with the Care Act 2014 or Children Act 1989.

Safeguarding:

• Lead Section 47 investigations for child protection or Safeguarding Adult Enquiries (SAEs).
• Collaborate with police, schools, and healthcare providers to mitigate risks.

Advocacy & Support:

• Empower clients to access housing, benefits, or therapeutic services.
• Advocate for marginalized groups (refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, elderly populations).

Multi-Agency Collaboration:

• Work with teachers, GPs, and probation officers to deliver holistic support.
• Represent clients in court proceedings (e.g., Care Orders, Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards).

Compliance & Ethics:

• Adhere to Social Work England (SWE) standards and GDPR regulations.
• Maintain accurate records using case management systems (e.g., LiquidLogic, Mosaic).

Requirements

Essential Criteria

• Qualifications:
  • Recognized social work degree (equivalent to UK Bachelor’s or Master’s).
  • HCPC Registration: Must pass Overseas Application Process (proof of English proficiency and skills assessment).
• Experience:
  • 2+ years post-qualification experience in child/family services, adult social care, or mental health.
• Language Proficiency:
  • IELTS: 7.0 overall (minimum 6.5 in writing) or OET: Grade B or approved English-taught degree.
• Visa Eligibility:
  • Qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa (employers provide Certificate of Sponsorship).

Desirable Skills

• Knowledge of UK legislation (Mental Capacity Act, Human Rights Act).
• Experience with trauma-informed practice or systemic therapy models.
• Driving license (useful for community-based roles).

What We Offer

1. Visa & Relocation Support

• Skilled Worker Visa: Full coverage of application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Relocation Package: £3,000–£5,000 for flights, temporary housing, and UK essentials (e.g., SIM cards, transport passes).

Salary:

• Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSW): £30,000 – £35,000
• Experienced Practitioners: £36,000 – £42,000
• Advanced/Specialist Roles: £43,000 – £48,000+

2. Professional Development

• HCPC Registration Support: Guidance on portfolio submissions and Skills for Care assessments.
• ASYE Programmes: Assessed and Supported Year in Employment for NQSWs.
• CPD Funding: Annual £1,500 budget for courses (e.g., systemic practice, dementia care).

3. Work-Life Balance

• Flexible Hybrid Working: Split time between office, home, and community visits.
• Generous Leave: 28–31 days annual leave + public holidays.
• Wellbeing Services: Free access to therapy, mindfulness apps, and supervision sessions.

4. Community Integration

• Cultural Orientation: Workshops on UK social care systems, local resources, and safeguarding frameworks.
• Buddy System: Paired with an international social worker for peer support.
• Networking: Join forums like BASW (British Association of Social Workers) or regional diaspora groups.

About Our Partner Employers

We collaborate with:

• London Borough Councils: Tackling child poverty and gang violence in areas like Tower Hamlets and Lambeth.
• NHS Mental Health Trusts: Delivering crisis intervention in cities like Birmingham and Leeds.
• Charities: Supporting refugees (e.g., British Red Cross) or domestic abuse survivors (e.g., Refuge).
• Private Agencies: Providing therapeutic foster care or disability services nationwide.

FAQs for Overseas Applicants

Q: How long does HCPC registration take?
A: 3–6 months. Employers provide templates for portfolios and cover assessment fees.

Q: Is UK experience required?
A: No! Employers value international perspectives. Highlight transferable skills like crisis management or cross-cultural communication.

Q: Can I work part-time?
A: Yes, if hours meet the 30-hour/week minimum for visa eligibility.

Q: What’s the cost of living in London?
A: Budget £1,200–£1,800/month for rent, transport, and bills. Employers share affordable housing leads.

Q: Are there age restrictions?
A: No—the UK values experienced practitioners. Mature applicants are encouraged.

Contact for Support:
UK Social Care Recruitment Partnership
Email: socialworkvisa@ukcare.org
Phone: +44 (0)20 7946 0600 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–5 PM GMT)