More university places for social work needed
Ministry of Social Affairs and Health
Publication date
19.9.2006
6.00
Press release
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The results of a research report published 20 September indicate that the quality and coverage of social services can be maintained by renewing the job structure and increasing the numbers of study places for social sector training at universities and vocational colleges.
This, it is expected, could overcome the labour shortage in the field as more professionals retire. The main shortage concerns social workers.
By 2015 a third of those now employed will have retired. At present about 150 newly qualified social workers are recruited a year. The report proposes that at least 100 more study places for social work be created at universities.
Further information:
Ms Pirjo Sarvimäki, Senior Officer, tel. +358 9 160 73136, 050 3653802