Open University documentary on BBC 2 highlights the challenges facing social workers
Protecting Our Children, a three-part documentary on BBC TWO, at 9pm on the 30th January, 6th February (watch again on BBC iPlayer) and 13th February.
The series follows social workers from Bristol City Council and highlights the life-changing decisions they make on a daily basis for the city’s children. Open University Senior Social Work Lecturer Dr Lucy Rai and Social Work Lecturer Dr Barry Cooper worked with the BBC to provide expert input into the development of the documentary.
Information on studying social work with the OU
Information about child protection and free educational resources on social work
Social work is one of the most rewarding careers in the care sector – whether you’re supporting families and individuals at times of crisis, helping to protect the most vulnerable members of society or acting as an advocate to promote the best outcome for your clients.
It’s also one of the most demanding, requiring highly skilled people educated to degree level – but don’t let that put you off. The Open University is the largest provider of part-time social work training in the UK. We’re also famous for our openness, supporting anyone who wants to get back into education – whether you’re taking your first steps on the learning ladder, or an experienced learner looking for high-level professional development. We offer:
- short introductory modules to give you a taste of a new subject area (such as children, health, law or society) and get you back into studying
- a Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care, ideal if you’re wondering if social work is for you or if you’re and employer looking for development opportunities for staff in social work support roles
- a new Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland)
- a work-based honours degree in social work (offered in partnership with employers), for people already working in the care sector
- a top-up degree to enable Social Workers with a DipSW to achieve an honours degree.
Our curriculum is developed by leading academics and professionals who are actively engaged in social work, ensuring that teaching reflects current priorities. We’re also pioneers in working collaboratively with service users, whose voices are heard throughout our learning materials – challenging and enriching the contributions of practitioners and policy makers alike.