Roles in CAMHS
Family Support worker
About the role...
Family support workers work with families to support parents or a child with either a disability or to develop parenting skills.
You might work in a school or in the clients home and the environment can be emotionally demanding. This role works in a team with other core professionals such as social workers, psychologists and nurses and provides practical support to families and young people.
What qualifications do I need?
Some people study a Level 3 diploma in health and social care or children prior to applying for one of these roles or they apply for a apprenticeship where they can qualify in support children and young people.
However you do need some skills and knowledge in the following:
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• a desire to help people
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What experience do I need to bring?
It does help if you have had some experience of working with young people either as volunteering or through paid work.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship is required for this role too.
With experience gained in this role, you can specialise in a certain area and lead a team of family support workers.