New Online Tool to Transform Social Care Career Navigation in Scotland

New Online Tool to Transform Social Care Career Navigation in Scotland

On 30 April 2025, NES and the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) launched the Social Care Career Options tool, a new online resource designed to support individuals exploring careers in social care.  

Whether someone is new to the sector or looking to advance their career, this innovative tool provides comprehensive insights into over 70 job roles across adult and children’s social care. Through detailed role descriptions and real-life testimonials, users will gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available and how their existing skills align with the sector’s demands. 

Career awareness and recruitment challenges 

Social care is a diverse and rewarding sector, comprising 7.8% of Scotland’s workforce. It offers flexible roles that enable workers to develop valuable skills and qualifications while making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. 

However, research indicates that many prospective and existing workers struggle to find clear, accessible career information. Confusion over role diversity and entry requirements prevents many from pursuing or advancing careers in social care. NES and SSSC, in collaboration with sector partners, have developed the Social Care Career Options tool to simplify this process and encourage more people to enter and remain in the industry. 

Gordon Paterson, Director, Social Care Directorate at NES said:

‘'I am very pleased that the Social Care Directorate in NES has had the opportunity to work in partnership with the SSSC, and the wider social care sector in developing the Social Care Career Options Tool.  As well as being of benefit to both prospective and new recruits to social care, this important resources will aid providers in their efforts to address the recruitment and retention challenges facing the sector." 

What the Tool Offers 

• Dedicated pages for over 70 social care roles, outlining required skills, qualifications, and career progression opportunities.   

• Workers’ stories to highlight the personal and professional rewards of working in social care.   

• Currently in development, we plan to add an AI-powered chatbot support, providing tailored responses to questions that are individual to each person using the site.   

This mobile-friendly, easy-to-navigate platform ensures that information is engaging, clear, and accessible to all users. 

Development and future plans 

Over the past year, NES and SSSC have mapped out the full spectrum of in scope social care roles, categorized them into job families, and researched entry requirements and development pathways. The site has been technically optimised for ease of use, ensuring seamless mobile access. 

After the official launch on 30 April 2025, regular updates will expand available content, keeping the site relevant and up to date for users. Additionally, NES and SSSC will begin testing the AI chatbot, with further details on its availability to be announced soon. 

The Social Care Career Options tool represents a major step forward in supporting Scotland’s social care workforce, providing clarity, accessibility, and practical career guidance.   

For more information, contact careersincare@sssc.uk.com

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