Working Here
At Coventry, we work closely together to ensure that we provide the best and most effective support for the people who live in the area. Our service is in great demand and we rely on each other to provide a co-ordinated and protective service for children who may be in a vulnerable position. With this in mind, you will be recognised for your work and given the appropriate support and supervision when you need it.
Staff benefits:
Financial Rewards:
We appreciate the difficult job social workers undertake on a day-to-day basis which is why we aim to give you the best rewards possible.
Rates of Pay:
At Coventry, you will find one of the highest starting salaries in the region. In Coventry, you don't have to just wait for your annual progression to get a pay increase either. We will support you with your learning and development so when you increase your skills and knowledge you can receive additional increments on-top of your annual progression.* At Coventry we want you to develop and improve your practice, and we believe your efforts should be recognised and rewarded.
Career Pathways:
Coventry City Council is part of a pilot project looking at developing a career pathway for social workers. Traditionally, the only option for social workers to progress further in their career was to go into management. At Coventry we recognise this doesn't suit all social workers, as many do not wish to take on a management role and/or leave front-line practice.
We are in the process of developing new roles, such as the Advanced Practitioner which will ensure staff can remain in front-line practice yet have a status and salary that reflects the expertise held. Whatever stage you join us at, be it newly qualified or experienced, you can be sure you will be supported to develop your practice and progress your career to reach your ambitions.
*When you successfully complete your NQSW (Newly Qualified Social Worker) portfolio you will receive an additional increment on top of any annual progression increments (within and up to the top of the post salary grade).
Training and Development:
Coventry City Council is committed to providing you with the best possible training and support for your continuing development as a qualified practitioner. We have a committed workforce development team that provide a range of blended training, including workshops, seminars, e-learning and traditional taught training to ensure:
- positive outcomes for children
- that staff are safe in their practice
- support personal development and confidence in your role.
What is unique in Coventry is that we understand people have different learning needs and styles. We have developed an extensive on-line resource, 'The Social Care Learning Forum' to provide a range of training that will meet your own individual training needs.
Here you can access instant e-learning programmes, on-line journals, research sites and communication network facilities (to share ideas and information within your chosen groups).
To find out more about the great range of short training courses, have a look at our 2009/10 training manual (see link for further details).
For social workers interested in furthering their academic achievements as well as improving their practice, we support workers to access the Children's Pathway Post Qualifying Specialist Award at Warwick University (see link for further details) and Coventry University (Enabling Others Module)
Social Workers can apply to undertake modules at their own pace and earn credits (CATS) towards a Masters Degree.
So whether you have your own five year development plan or need to access training today, Coventry City Council have the resources to make your individual training plans a reality.
