Social workers in the Czech Republic are contending with wages significantly below the average, leading to a decline in their quality of life and exacerbating high turnover rates within the profession. This presents a considerable challenge for government agencies and non-profit organizations in their efforts to attract and retain talented social workers. Furthermore, regions facing a shortage of social workers may experience increased unemployment and crime rates.

A study conducted by the “Invisible” project reveals that professional social workers assisting socially and economically disadvantaged groups earn an average monthly salary of approximately 32,103 Czech korun. This is around 7,500 korun less than similarly educated individuals in other fields. The study further highlights that nearly 22,500 social workers find themselves in financially precarious situations.

The issue of low wages for social workers has been exacerbated in the past year, particularly in major cities with high living costs. Housing, including mortgages and rental properties, has become unaffordable for many social workers. Aleš Rod from the Center for Economic and Market Analysis emphasizes that this is an ongoing problem rather than a short-term issue caused solely by inflation. Rod, who is also a member of the National Economic Council, recently presented a consolidation package of tax changes and savings to address this challenge alongside government ministers.

The consequences of low financial compensation are evident, as expressed by Tereza Ševčíková, the head of the Pod křídly Civic Advice Center in Valašské Meziříčí. Ševčíková points out that supermarket cashiers can earn higher starting salaries than experienced social workers with decades of experience. Social work entails highly specialized and complex tasks such as guiding debt management, resolving rental issues, and managing social benefits.

The impact of low wages extends beyond individual social workers. Markéta Školoudová, the director of the House of Three Wishes, revealed that two employees resigned this year due to inadequate wages. The organization provides essential support to at-risk children and their families in collaboration with government bodies and the city of Prague. However, funding shortages and delays have posed ongoing challenges.

Insufficient financial resources and low wages in the social work sector make it increasingly difficult to attract new professionals. Hynek Kalvoda, the chairman of the Association of Civic Advice Centers, warns that the absence of social field services in a city or region can lead to far-reaching consequences, including increased unemployment, higher crime rates, and increased drug use. Inquiries for social benefits assistance in civic advice centers have risen by over 90 percent.

In addition to economic challenges, social workers often face a lack of social recognition and experience psychological strain due to the demanding nature of their work. The “Invisible” project suggests that raising wages for social workers, with possible contributions from municipalities holding significant reserves of approximately 300 billion korun, could alleviate some of these difficulties. Furthermore, providing subsidized housing for social workers would help address the housing affordability issue faced by many professionals in the field.

Article by Prague Forum