The College of Social Work (CSW) is planning to launch a peer mentoring scheme for those newly qualified in social care jobs.

Subject to approval by the interim board at the college, the scheme is set to be offered to all CSW members at the start of next year.

It is hoped that hoped that the scheme allows more adequate support for new social workers who are increasingly finding themselves facing difficult situations from the very beginning of their careers.  

Clare Barcham, who is professional practice development adviser for the College, claimed that the majority of their members would certainly approve of the scheme should it go ahead.

Speaking to Community Care, she said: "Social workers told us they would value peer mentoring. We're not conceiving of it as a counselling or support service, but rather an opportunity for career development and to discuss professional issues."

It is thought the move may be in reaction to recent criticisms from Unison surrounding the way that newly qualified social workers are being treated by care providers.

According to publicservice.co.uk, the trade union had accused local authorities of throwing inexperienced staff in at the deep end instead of easing them into the job.

The CSW are set to begin training mentors for the scheme imminently.