A new Social Service Workforce Census, the first of its kind in Romania, reveals significant challenges in the country’s social services sector. Conducted by the National College of Social Workers (CNASR) in partnership with UNICEF and Metro Media Transilvania, the survey gathered responses from over 20,000 workers between April and October 2022. The data highlights an ageing workforce, with 56% of respondents over 46 years old, and a predominance of women, who make up 87% of the sector.
The census also exposes a troubling disparity in rural areas, where only one-third of social workers are employed despite nearly half of Romania’s population living there. The findings underline an urgent need for targeted reforms, including better employment packages for rural workers, scholarships for students from disadvantaged areas, and improved training opportunities.
CNASR calls for these measures to address workforce shortages, enhance social services in rural areas, and ensure long-term sustainability in the sector.