A new scheme seeking to entice 200 recent graduates to re-train for social work jobs with children is now inviting applications.

The Children's Workforce Development Council (CWDC) launched their Step Up to Social Work fund last week, inviting all professionals who have at least a  2:1 degree and some experience of working with children to train to become qualified social workers.

Successful applicants will receive an annual salary of £15,000 whilst participating in the work-based course, which will run from September in eight regions of England. The scheme is being offered by the CWDC in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford - it will combine hands-on training in social work jobs with an ongoing course for a masters degree in social work.

"This new scheme is a positive step in ensuring that we attract the best people to pursue a career in social work" says Keith Brumfitt, director of strategy at the CWDC. "We want to remove potential barriers which may prevent skilled professionals from seeking to train as a social worker."

"Step Up to Social Work is a perfect opportunity for people with relevant qualifications and experience working with children who want to change their career while being supported financially.''

Although a masters-level qualification is not currently needed to be classed as a qualified social worker, the highest paying and most prestigious social work jobs may stipulate it as a requirement for potential applicants. Last year, the CWDC opened a similar fund under the Graduate Recruitment Scheme, seeking to attract and retain high quality social workers in England.