What is a social worker? A professional you can rely on when you're in trouble with caregiving or welfare.

A certified social worker is a professional (national qualification) who provides consultation on problems related to caregiving, welfare, and daily life, and connects people with the necessary systems and support services. They help people think through issues that are difficult to resolve on their own, such as illness, caregiving, disabilities, and anxieties about daily life.

Things you can talk about

You can get advice on a variety of issues related to caregiving and welfare, such as not knowing where to start with caregiving, feeling anxious about life after being discharged from the hospital, or considering facilities such as nursing homes.

Where are you? How do you differ from other professions?

They are employed in hospitals, community comprehensive support centers, nursing care facilities, and municipal consultation offices. In hospitals, "social worker" is a job title, and many of those in this role are certified social workers. Care managers, on the other hand, are professionals who create and adjust care plans for long-term care insurance services; their role is different.

There is no charge for consultations at community-based integrated care centers or hospitals.

*References: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, "Social Worker and Care Worker Act," Japan Association of Social Workers