Who is a Sozialarbeiter (social worker)?
Definition
A Sozialarbeiter (social worker) is a trained social professional with a university degree in Social Work (Soziale Arbeit), who typically works in social welfare centres, the Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt), schools, associations or humanitarian organisations.
His/Her tasks with families and children
Providing counselling and social support
Offering counselling to parents on how to deal with children in crisis situations (such as separation, domestic violence or parenting difficulties).
Giving advice on strengthening the relationship between parents and children and improving educational/parenting methods.
Child protection (Kinderschutz)
Intervening if there is a suspicion of neglect or violence against children.
Coordinating with the Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) and the courts to protect the child’s rights and ensure a safe environment.
Following up on child protection plans and making sure they are properly implemented.
Supporting children and young people
Helping children to overcome psychological or social problems.
Organising developmental and educational programmes (such as group activities, trips and workshops).
Supporting children at school, especially in cases of learning difficulties or behavioural problems.
Accompanying families in official procedures
Assisting families with applications for state benefits (such as child benefit – Kindergeld – or housing benefit – Wohngeld).
Helping them search for housing, daycare places or schools.
Supporting families with migration or asylum issues and facilitating their integration.
Cooperation with other institutions
Working together with doctors, schools, psychological services and the police to provide comprehensive support.
Coordinating with charities and welfare organisations to arrange material or medical assistance.
The importance of this role
The social worker is a key link between the family, society and state institutions.
He or she helps to prevent crises before they escalate and contributes to creating a safer and more stable environment for children.
Conclusion
The Sozialarbeiter working with families and children is more than just a counsellor – he or she is a supporter, protector and guide:
Helps resolve family and parenting crises.
Ensures the protection of children and advocates for their rights.
Supports families in building a stable and well-integrated life in German society.
The editorial team of the website strives, through extensive research and the use of multiple sources, to provide information that is as accurate as possible. Nevertheless, occasional errors or details that are not fully verified may still occur. Therefore, the information in this article should be regarded as an initial point of reference, and for binding, case-specific information you should always consult the competent authorities or qualified counselling centres.
