Think Ahead - become a mental health social worker in County Durham

Get paid to train as a mental health social worker, earn a master's degree, and start a career that changes lives.

We're delighted to announce that we're partnering with the mental health charity Think Ahead to create opportunities for those interested in a career in mental health social work. In Durham we will be hosting a group of trainee mental health social workers with them, starting next summer.

Think Ahead's paid, two-year programme combines on-the-job learning and a master's degree to train mental health social workers across the country. You can earn as you learn, with dedicated support from experienced social workers, academic tutors, and start a secure career that really makes a difference.

As a mental health social worker, you would support people in your community living with significant mental health needs, using a social approach to help them with important aspects in their lives such as relationships, housing, and employment.

The closing date for applications is 26 February 2024 and the programme starts on 8 July 2024.

To find out more and apply, visit Think Ahead.

What's on offer

You will receive:

training on the job, working alongside social work and mental health professionals
two fully funded qualifications: qualify as a social worker and earn a master's degree from Middlesex University
a tax-free bursary of £18,250 for the first 14 months

The programme requirements

You will need to:

hold or be predicted an undergraduate degree certificate at minimum 2:2 with honours in a subject other than social work
have the right to remain and work in the UK (including access to public funds) for the entire duration of the programme
hold at least a grade C GCSE in Maths (or equivalent Level 2 qualification)
hold at least a grade C GCSE in English or English Language (not English Literature, or equivalent Level 2 qualification)
have a valid UK driving licence and have access to a car

Meet Kim

Meet Kim who is a social worker and recently qualified as an approved mental health professional.

Kim is a Social Worker in the 14 to 25 Navigation Team and has recently qualified as an Approved Mental Health Professional too.

Why did you choose a career in Mental Health Social Work?

Social Work was not initially on my radar. I studied Languages at Durham University and thought I would go on to become a teacher. After graduating I went travelling and I met lots of different people in the charity sector. During my travels I learned more about social justice and that became a keen interest. When I returned from travelling I met with a Careers Advisor who told me about a programme called Think Ahead - and I soon realised that the programme aligned more to my values and interests.

I joined the Think Ahead programme, and it is the best thing I ever did!

What are your experiences of the Think Ahead programme in Durham?

The programme is intense but you get a lot of rewards.

Working with Durham has been great. I have had countless opportunities that has supported my development, working across lots of different teams, including Health teams.

To be fast tracked into this career and know that I had a job at the end of my training, was hugely important to me.