Process
Contact Merit Staffing Solutions for discussion after having initial thoughts of the professional opportunities in the United Kingdom
Register with Merit Staffing Solutions
Preliminary screening by Merit Staffing Solutions
Submit application to the General Social Care Council (Merit Staffing Solutions can provide assistance with registration form)
Employers from the United Kingdom come to Canada for interview
Preparation for transition to include provision of information to prepare to go to United Kingdom including obtaining your contract and work permit
Meet and greet by Merit Staffing Solutions when you arrive in the United Kingdom where you will be provided with a thorough orientation package
Support will be offered throughout entire experience
Merit Staffing Solutions will assist with every step of the way from your initial thoughts of the opportunities available through to supporting you in making a successful transition to life in the United Kingdom. The preliminary stages includes providing information about practicing social work and living within the United Kingdom and having initial conversations to determine whether you would be a suitable candidate. After the screening process, interviews will be arranged whereby employers from the United Kingdom will come to Canada to meet with you personally. If you are successful, work permits will be obtained on your behalf. You will then be provided with ample information to ensure that the transition to working and living in the United Kingdom is as smooth as possible.
Merit Staffing Solutions will ensure that you do not feel abandoned once you are in the United Kingdom. When you are greeted at the airport, you will be provided with a comprehensive orientation package with thorough information about life within the United Kingdom from the basics of setting up home to accessing the culture and entertainment. As you adjust to your new surroundings, support will continue to be offered and you will have access to assistance if required. Regular social outings will be organized with fellow Canadian social workers whereby you will have the opportunity to develop friendships and experience some of the social life that the United Kingdom has to offer. Throughout the experience, Merit Staffing Solutions will be a strong advocate for your best interests.
To work as a social worker within the United Kingdom the basic requirements include a degree in social work, a current police check, and registration with the General Social Care Council (GSCC) in the United Kingdom. Since April 2005, all social workers need to be registered with the General Social Care Council in order to practice social work within the United Kingdom. The GSCC will also certify your degree. Due to the length of time in processing the registration, it is suggested that the application is submitted as soon as possible. For further information about the process and the GSCC visit www.gscc.org.uk. Merit Staffing Solutions will assist you in completing the necessary forms to ensure the process is problem-free. The cost of registration is £155 but Merit Staffing Solutions will refund your money once you arrive in the United Kingdom.
