Family support worker

As a family support worker you could:

• work with people addicted to alcohol or drugs
• support a parent while they're in hospital or prison
• support clients who have marriage or money problems
• support a child or parent with a disability
• attend court sessions about caring for a child
• help clients develop their parenting skills

• 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

For many roles you may be expected to have a driving licence with no penalty points.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• volunteering
• applying directly

With experience and training you could:

• specialise in an area, like working with people with disabilities
• lead a team of family support workers
• manage a family centre or refuge
• move into social work