Ontological (In)security in Early Career Social Work during COVID-19: Experiences in Scotland

Abstract The impact of COVID-19 on the working lives professionals has been much interest. Within social work, pandemic increased workload demands, whilst way in which work was done shifted significantly. This article uses data gathered from newly qualified workers (NQSWs) who began their during pandemic. These first years practice are viewed as an extension to workers’ formal education and a vital stage professional development. Survey (n = 124) interview 12) were NQSWs across Scotland. Findings considered through Giddens’ lens ontological security, explore NQSW transitions context disruption its impacts NQSWs’ confidence competence, well sense self identity. Consistent with other studies, respondents most impacted by home associated isolation separation colleagues, particularly when engaged emotionally charged work. uncovered trichotomy experience, variation quality availability some supports—induction, training learning development—and informal support. Implications for include need focus how we support nurture at such critical socialisation.