Relatives consultant

What does an Anhörigkonsulent do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Anhörigkonsulents work to provide support, advice, and guidance to relatives caring for or supporting loved ones with various types of disabilities, illnesses, or dependency issues. The work often involves identifying needs among relatives, offering counseling, coordinating contacts with other authorities, and arranging training sessions or support groups. The position is usually located within municipal activities, often at social services departments, and involves both independent work and collaboration with colleagues in areas such as elder care, LSS, psychiatry, and addiction treatment. The work environment is characterized by varied days, including meetings, conversations, and administrative tasks, with high demands on responsiveness and empathy.

Salary Development Over Time

The profession of Anhörigkonsulent has shown stable salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, increasing to 34 800 SEK in 2023. By 2024, salaries continued to rise to 36 100 SEK, representing a total increase of over 8.7% over three years. This positive trend can largely be attributed to increased focus on relatives' issues within municipal services and a growing need for qualified social workers. Demand for expertise in the area has contributed to strengthening salary development, although salaries are still somewhat below those of some other social professions.

Anhörigkonsulent Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, government sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK/hour
• Women: 35 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 36 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer, generally somewhat higher in metropolitan areas.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an Anhörigkonsulent, a university degree in social work, such as a social worker degree, is usually required. Education in behavioral sciences or nursing can also be relevant. Many employers also require experience in support services or social work, as well as good knowledge of legislation and cooperation models within care and social services.

• Formal degree: Social worker program (3.5 years), or education in behavioral sciences or nursing
• Relevant courses: Courses in counseling methods, crisis support, and social law
• Internship: Internships in social services, elder care, or disability services are meritorious
• Prerequisites: University eligibility, sometimes work experience in social work
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in social issues and good communication skills are highly valued

Common Benefits and Compensation

Anhörigkonsulents are often offered generous vacation policies, occupational pension, wellness grants, and opportunities for professional development. In some cases, flexible working hours, remote work, and subsidized lunches may also be available depending on the employer and region.

Competition and Challenges

The job market for Anhörigkonsulents is characterized by a relatively balanced competition situation, with demand and supply of personnel in equilibrium according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. However, challenges include increased demands for documentation, collaboration, and specialist competence, especially in areas such as dementia, substance abuse, and mental health. The role can also be emotionally demanding, as it often involves meeting people in vulnerable life situations and handling complex cases. Despite this, employment prospects are stable, and the future is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with approximately 237 available jobs in the profession right now.

Tips for Aspiring Anhörigkonsulents

To succeed as an Anhörigkonsulent, it is good to have a genuine interest in helping others and an empathetic attitude. Being responsive and able to build trusting relationships is central, especially when providing support in sensitive and sometimes difficult situations. Strong communication skills facilitate conversations with relatives and collaboration with other professionals. It is also valuable to be organized and able to handle administrative tasks efficiently, as documentation is an important part of the work. Flexibility and problem-solving skills help when the workday changes quickly, and a commitment to continuously developing one's competence is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Key Facts About Anhörigkonsulent

• Education level: Social worker degree or equivalent university education
• Work environment: Municipal activities, often independent work
• Number of available jobs: 237 in the profession
• Gender distribution: Small differences, women earn 98% of men's salaries
• Future prospects: Moderate opportunities, stable demand

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as an Anhörigkonsulent, there are opportunities to take on greater responsibility, such as coordination tasks, development work, or leadership roles within social services. Some choose to specialize further in areas like dementia, substance abuse, or children and youth, while others move on to strategic positions or educational initiatives within municipal or regional activities. The Swedish Public Employment Service predicts that the job market will remain stable, with demand expected to be unchanged over the next five years. Employers value continued experience and specialized knowledge, providing good opportunities for those wishing to develop within the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anhörigkonsulent

• What does an Anhörigkonsulent earn?
  - The average salary for an Anhörigkonsulent is 36 100 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 35 900 SEK, which corresponds to 98% of men's salary at 36 500 SEK.
• What education is required to become an Anhörigkonsulent?
  - Usually, a social worker degree or equivalent university education in social work is required.
• Are there many job openings for Anhörigkonsulent?
  - Currently, there are 237 available jobs within the professions of treatment assistants and social pedagogues.
• How is the job market for Anhörigkonsulents?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years.
• Where do Anhörigkonsulents usually work?
  - Most work within municipal services, often at social services departments or within elder and disability care.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Empathy, responsiveness, good communication skills, and organization are especially important qualities.