Returning to social work after becoming a new parent

Two social workers share their experience of returning to social work from maternity leave and highlight how Essex County Council has supported their transition.How much support did you have when you returned to social work after becoming a first-time parent?In three episodes of the Social Work Community Podcast, social workers at Essex County Council discuss the various ways the local authority supports its workforce and promotes their wellbeing.In this episode, Amy, a team manager in a Care Quality Commission service improvement team in adult services, and Brooke, who works in a family support and protection team in children’s services, share their experiences.Both first-time mothers highlight that being a parent is no barrier to career progression at the local authority and show how supportive management structures have helped them achieve a work-life balance.Access the transcript here.About the podcastThe Social Work Community Podcast explores the issues that matter to social work practitioners in their working lives.You will hear direct from social workers in your community about their successes and their challenges.Our first season was nominated in this year’s British Association of Social Workers (BASW) Social Work Journalism Awards.So sign up to the Social Work Community to be among the first to catch each episode and to connect with fellow practitioners in a safe space.Otherwise, check out the Social Work Community Podcast on the following:SpotifyApple PodcastsSpreakerAudible (Amazon)Click ‘follow’ or ‘subscribe’ on your podcast app so you know when a new episode is published.And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram.The Social Work Community podcast is where social workers come to discuss the key issues affecting their profession. Whether you are a student or an experienced social worker - whether you are frontline or management, this podcast is for you. You will hear direct from social workers in your community about their successes and their challenges.Follow us on Instagram to keep up-to-date with the latest news and join the Social Work Community for all things social work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.