Formal education has finally ended, you've passed your exams and you're getting started as a newly qualified social worker (NQSW). As you make the transition from student to fully fledged practitioner, you'll soon discover a whole host of challenges as you hit the ground running in your new career.

This handbook will guide you through the initial hurdles you will face in this transitional phase, helping you to fully understand your role and how to meet the requirements of NQSW status. The book explores the practicalities of starting work in a new organisation and the professional demands particular to adult and mental health services, such as working jointly with other professions and maintaining your professional identity. A range of strategies are provided for staying motivated, managing stress and developing support networks. The authors also explore the role of supervision and critical reflection, and give advice on continuing professional development.

This survival guide is an essential support to students, newly qualified social workers, practice educators and post-qualification practitioners specialising in adult and mental health services.

Introduction. Part I. Finding Your Feet. 1. Now Im a Social Worker 2. Understanding and Using NQSW Status. 3. Starting Work in a New Organisation. Part II. Finding Your Way. 4. Developing My Professional Identity 5. Understanding the Professional Role and Task. Part III. Finding the Way Forward. 6. Taking Part in Supervision. 7. Managing Stress. 8. Continuing Professional Development, Critical Reflection and Building for the Future. Conclusion. Appendix I. NQSW Frameworks Currently in Place in the UK. Appendix II. Induction Frameworks and Standards. Appendix III. Legislation, Policy and National Practice Guidance: Some Key Examples. References. Index.