Twenty-seven apprentices have begun a three-year programme working at Lancashire County Council.
The apprenticeship funded by the Growth and Skills Levy has secured a place for most people who started the social work degree apprenticeship at the University of Lancashire.
Being supported to secure a social worker position, there are 13 adult service apprenticeships and 14 children’s service apprenticeships.
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With some job titles being filled internally and externally, National Apprenticeship Week which runs between 9 and 15 February, has an aim to celebrate the career path.
Julie Bowling, from Preston, is an early help officer within children’s services and said: “It does give you an edge working alongside social workers as you pick things up from them.
“We take a strength-based approach and I always see the best in people so I’m happy to embrace whatever’s thrown at me and help as many people as I can.”
County councillor Matthew Salter, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “Social workers make a real difference to people’s lives across Lancashire every day, and it’s inspiring that so many of our staff are developing their careers so they can support more people.
“The experience they already have will be invaluable as they hit the ground running, and this is a real investment in the future of social care in Lancashire.”
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