1 in 6.3 people experience mental health problems in the workplace. Those working within the social care sector are not immune to mental health problems and often are affected by issues such as emotional exhaustion, compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma and burn out.
Social workers deal with complex and challenging issues often in high pressure and emotionally charged situations. This can take a toll on their mental health and wellbeing. This is why self-care and seeking support is crucial within this field of work. Being a social worker can be a rewarding career, however it can also be challenging and stressful. It is important for social workers to take care of themselves and seek support to manage stressors, stay engaged in the role and prevent burnout.
Independent Social Workers benefits
Being an Independent Social Worker comes with many benefits, and many are the reason our Independent Social Workers work within our nationwide panel to this day.
As an ISW, you have greater control over your schedule, allowing for an improved work-life balance. A good work-life balance has numerous positive effects including less stress, a lower risk of burn out and a greater sense of well-being.
As an ISW you have a greater sense of autonomy, you are your own boss, you can make decisions that align with your own values and goals, which in turn promotes positive self-esteem and assists with stable mental health.
Financial difficulties have the potential to impact upon your mental health and Independent Social Workers have the potential to earn more money. As such having the potential to earn more can also assist with stable mental health.
Being an ISW requires a high level of professionalism and responsibility, this can help to develop personal and professional growth, which in turn can assist with stable mental health.
Overall working as an ISW on the panel for Advanced CCA can offer greater independence, flexibility and earning potential allowing you to build a career that aligns with your values and goals. Feeling happy and content in your role assists in maintaining stable mental health.
Advanced CCA are committed to supporting our panel of ISW’s to ensure that they feel valued in their roles. Debbie Pedder, our Panel Manager is always available for case discussions and support with practice issues. Whilst Amanda Walsh our Training and Quality Assurance Manager is on hand to assist with developing professional confidence through ongoing training and quality improvements. This helps ISW’s to feel competent in their roles which in turn assists with maintaining positive mental health.
Our Independent Social Workers
Here’s a few things members of our panel have to say about working with ACCA.
“I have worked with ACCA for 2 years and this has been the best decision. I benefit from a wonderfully supportive admin team who communicate clearly and always do their best to support you. They know the work and the timescales and approach me with the right work.” – Lisa Kenny
“The main reason I wanted to become an ISW was to manage my work/life balance with a young daughter, managing childcare issues. I enjoy the flexibility of working when I want to, managing my own diary and time, which at times can be a bit of a challenge in this busy world!
I am continuing to develop my skills with the CPD opportunities that are provided with online training and more recently a company conference. I feel that I have become more confident in my work and myself since becoming an ISW.
I really do enjoy my “job” and would highly recommend becoming an ISW.” – Sarah Meekin
“I came to ACCA in the summer of 2022, exhausted, deflated after having a 15 year career in Social Work, trying to juggle, life and the demands of the work that I love so much.
Debbie Pedder introduced me to the world of independence and what it is actually like to fall back in love with the profession I chose. The support from Debbie and the ACCA team has been amazing. I am no longer alone, stressed, burnout and ready to throw the towel in.” – Vivienne White
