Looking to write a standout social work CV? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re a newly qualified professional or an experienced social worker, this guide will help you craft a strong application that speaks directly to employers.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Social work CV examples
  • Customisable CV templates
  • A step-by-step writing guide
  • Frequently asked questions

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    Social worker CV example

    Social Worker CV Example
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    Social work CV templates

    Your social work CV should be clear, structured, and easy to read, especially if you’re applying to time-pressed recruiters or public sector roles.

    Choose from our professional CV templates below to get started. Each layout is designed to highlight key sections like work experience, qualifications, and soft skills essential for social work.

    How to write a social work CV (step by step)

    Here’s how to structure your CV for a social worker role, with examples for each section:

    • Step 1. Start with a personal statement

      Give a short summary of who you are, what you specialise in, and what you bring to the role.

      Example:

      Empathetic and dedicated social worker with 5+ years’ experience supporting vulnerable adults in community-based settings. Skilled in care planning, safeguarding, and multi-agency collaboration. Passionate about delivering client-centred support with professionalism and compassion.

    • Step 2. Highlight your key skills

      Focus on the core competencies employers look for in social workers. Aim to include a mixture of technical and soft skills with 8-10 in total. 

      Example skills:

      • Safeguarding and risk assessment
      • Crisis intervention
      • Emotional resilience
      • Multi-agency collaboration
      • Report writing and documentation
      • Child protection procedures
      • Case management

    • Step 3. Write your work experience

      List previous roles in reverse chronological order. Include your job title, employer, dates, and bullet points describing your responsibilities and achievements.

      Example:
      Social Worker
      Leeds City Council | May 2020 – Present

      • Conduct assessments and develop care plans for vulnerable individuals and families
      • Collaborate with healthcare providers, legal representatives, and schools
      • Manage a caseload of up to 20 clients, ensuring compliance with safeguarding protocols

      Delivered crisis interventions in urgent cases, achieving positive short-term outcomes

    • Step 4. Add your education and qualifications

      Include your social work degree, relevant certifications, and professional registration.

      Example:
      BA (Hons) Social Work
      University of Sheffield | Graduated 2019

      Additional:

      • HCPC Registered
      • Completed Safeguarding Adults Level 3 (2022)

    • Step 5. Include optional sections

      Add extra sections if relevant, such as:

      • Volunteering (e.g. youth mentoring, care homes)
      • Languages spoken
      • Continuing professional development (CPD) courses
      • Memberships (e.g. BASW)
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    Skills to include in your social worker CV

    Social worker CVs combine a vast array of skills and qualities. Here are some must-haves.

    Core skills for any social worker

    • Communication and mediation
    • Empathy and understanding
    • HCPC-approved degree
    • Problem-solving
    • Care and discretion

    Soft social worker skills

    • Organisation and time management
    • Driving licence
    • Sense of humour
    • Flexible approach
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    Answers to all your social worker CV questions

    What should I include in a social work CV?

    A strong social work CV should include:

    • Contact details
    • Personal statement
    • Key skills
    • Work experience in relevant roles
    • Education and qualifications

    Optional extras (volunteering, certifications, memberships)

    Do I need to include HCPC registration on my CV?

    Yes, absolutely. If you’re a registered social worker, list your HCPC (or Social Work England) registration in the qualifications section.

    How do I write a CV for social work with no experience?

    Focus on your degree, placements, volunteering, and transferable skills like empathy, communication, and organisation. Include any relevant coursework or shadowing experience to strengthen your application.

    Should I use a CV template for a social work job?

    Yes. A professional CV template ensures your layout is clear and well-organised, helping employers quickly find your strengths and qualifications.

    What makes a great social worker CV?

    A great social worker CV has the perfect balance of qualifications, up-to-date knowledge, and a passion to help those in need. That’s all backed up by relevant experience in social work roles, or similar roles with transferable skills.

    What are the key responsibilities of a social worker?

    Social workers are primarily responsible for helping vulnerable people, either on an ongoing basis or in specific times of need. That includes building relationships, planning activities, and assessing situations to report on the best way forward.

    Is a cover letter necessary for social work jobs?

    It’s often expected, especially in the public or charity sector. A cover letter lets you explain your motivation and give more context to your experience.

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    Related resources

    Create a social worker CV that works

    With so much to manage, social work can feel like a balancing act. Thanks to myPerfectCV, you don’t have to add CV writing to your list. Our state-of-the-art CV builder has everything you need in one place, including a range of templates and polished content tailored to social worker roles.

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