Disability consultant

What does a handicapped consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A handicapped consultant works to support and guide individuals with disabilities, as well as their relatives, on issues related to daily life, community support, and rights. The role often involves assessing needs, coordinating efforts from various authorities, and providing advice on accessibility, employment, and education. The work environment is varied and may include both office work and field visits to clients or partners. Contacts with social services, schools, and healthcare are common, and the work is characterized by close collaboration with other professionals in care and support services.

Salary development over time

The salary for a handicapped consultant has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, which increased to 44 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 46 500 SEK per month. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.6% over the period, with a noticeable acceleration in the last year. The increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified competence in the field and a greater focus on individualized support and coordination of social efforts. The trend also reflects a growing need for specialized advice within social work and disability issues.

Handicapped consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 280 SEK
• Women: 45 300 SEK/month
• Men: 48 800 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a handicapped consultant, a university degree in social work, pedagogy, or similar fields is generally required. Many employers seek a social worker degree or other relevant academic background, often supplemented with experience working with people with disabilities. Specialized courses, internships, and further training in disability issues are meritorious and can provide in-depth knowledge.

• Formal degree: Social worker, behavioral scientist, or pedagogical education (3–4.5 years)
• Specialized courses: Focused on disability or habilitation
• Internship: Work experience in social work is recommended
• Additional training: Courses in legislation, accessibility, and coordination
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility

Common benefits and compensations

Many handicapped consultants are employed within municipalities or regions and are covered by collective agreements that include occupational pension, extra vacation days, and wellness contributions. Further, opportunities for skills development, flexitime, and remote work are often offered, contributing to a good work-life balance.

Challenges and competition

The demand for handicapped consultants is assessed as medium-sized, with a balanced job market according to the Employment Service's forecast. Challenges include staying updated on legislative changes and managing complex cases involving multiple stakeholders. Because the profession often requires working independently and making decisions under pressure, prioritization and clear communication are essential. Competition for positions can vary regionally, with some areas having greater needs than others.

Tips for aspiring handicapped consultants

To succeed as a handicapped consultant, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in social issues and a strong commitment to improving the living conditions for people with disabilities. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates meetings with clients and their relatives, while analytical skills help identify needs and coordinate appropriate interventions. It is also valuable to be organized and solutions-oriented, especially when managing multiple contacts with authorities. Developing good collaboration and communication skills makes it easier to build networks and drive change within organizations. Finally, early practical experience in social work is recommended to deepen understanding of the profession.

Key facts about Handicapped Consultants

• Education level: University education, often social worker degree
• Professional group: Planners and investigators, among others
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork and collaboration
• Demand: Medium-sized, balanced job market
• Number of available jobs: 758 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, there are opportunities to specialize in areas such as LSS case management, habilitation, or work on development projects related to accessibility. Some advance to leadership roles such as unit manager or coordinator within social services. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities for planners and investigators are medium-sized and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. With increased focus on individualized interventions and coordination of support, there will continue to be a demand for competent handicapped consultants, especially within municipal and regional operations.

Frequently asked questions about Handicapped Consultants

• What does a Handicapped Consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK per month. Men earn an average of 48 800 SEK and women 45 300 SEK.
• What education is required to become a handicapped consultant?
  - Most commonly, a degree in social work or behavioral sciences, often supplemented with specialized courses.
• What is the job market like?
  - Demand is assessed as medium-sized and the job market is balanced. There are 758 available jobs within the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a handicapped consultant?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK (male, municipal sector), lowest salary 30,200 SEK (female, government sector).
• What are the duties of a handicapped consultant?
  - Assessment of needs, advice, coordination of efforts, and support for people with disabilities.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Some variation occurs depending on employer and region, but average salaries are relatively consistent nationwide.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Empathy, teamwork skills, analytical thinking, and good communication skills are particularly important in the profession.