By Jessica Jaganathan

IN THE latest move to make the social service sector more attractive, a system to formally recognise staff qualifications has been set up.

This means social workers will be seen more as professionals rather than volunteers, which could lead to more recognition and possibly, higher pay. This, in turn, will give them more job satisfaction.

Announcing this yesterday, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan said an accreditation board would be set up by his ministry, the National Council of Social Service and the Singapore Association of Social Workers.

It will accredit social workers based on their relevant qualifications, training and experience. It will also handle complaints, review training and conduct public education. Accredited social workers will have to renew their status every two years.

Speaking at the Social Workers' Day celebrations at the Grassroots' Club in Ang Mo Kio, the minister urged the nearly 400 social workers present to get their qualifications formally recognised.

Recent steps taken to make social work more attractive include the launch of a two-year bachelor's degree and a training allowance for voluntary welfare organisations.

Social workers yesterday applauded the latest move, saying it would address misconceptions that they are not professionals, but merely volunteers.

Mrs Jenny Bong, executive director of Methodist Welfare Services, said accrediting social workers will ensure they receive relevant training as well.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.