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Requirements 
The main duty of a social worker is to help people who are in crisis. They have to be optimistic and understanding, and persuade clients that things can change for the better with the correct guidance. 
The ability to handle emergencies is also important since there are often unexpected cases of young people getting into trouble.
Qualifications 
A degree or higher diploma in social work. Courses are offered at several institutions in Hong Kong. Upon graduation, social workers have to register at the social work registration board.
Average salary 
The starting salary for a social worker is around HK$15,000 to HK$18,000. Supervisors are usually paid more than HK$24,000. 
Work prospects 
A social worker's main duty is to provide counselling. They may be stationed at youth centres, travel to schools or go on the street to interact with young people in crisis. 
They have to approach young people as a friend might, and try to help them out. Young people who are in trouble are often struggling to make decisions or feel lost in life. It is important to reason out the pros and cons of making a decision, and guide them to make correct one. 
Easing tensions between young people and their families is another important job duty. The social worker must counsel both parties to help rebuild the relationship. 
Many clients lack confidence, so social workers organise activities to help them identify strengths and boost confidence. 
Finally, social workers have a lot of paper work. The progress and details of every case must be properly recorded and filed. 
Long-term prospects 
Social workers with more than five years of experience will be promoted to supervisor. They have more management and administrative duties and spend less time on the front line. 
Where to apply 
Social welfare department, youth centres, mental health institutes, welfare groups
A day in the life of a social worker
Working hours depend on the type of service your organisation offers. Generally there are two shifts at a youth centre: the morning shift from 10am to 6pm and the afternoon shift from 2pm to 10pm. 
At the beginning of every shift, social workers will gather for a conference to discuss the cases they are handling. 
Then they will work individually on their cases. Overtime work is common, as there may be emergency cases. 
Some youth centres provide night-time outreach services. The social workers have to work overnight shifts from 10pm to 6am, visiting various hot spots where troubled young people  might hang out at night.




Reaching out to help