Social welfare jobs are usually in good supply, especially during tough economic times. Almost every human service, mental health and non-profit agency employs social welfare workers in some capacity . Social workers are one group of social welfare workers. Social workers perform tasks such as linking clients with community services, working with families on issues such as parenting, and strengthening family relationships. For example, a social worker may be assigned to a family when child abuse is suspected. The social worker visits the home to assess the situation to determine if allegations of abuse can be substantiated. If enough evidence observed, this type of social worker also known as a child protective services worker, would initiate the process of removing the child from the home. Mental health social workers may have various duties. Mental health social workers with Masters degrees often work as therapists or intake workers. As a primary therapist a mental health social welfare worker would counsel clients, assess mental status, and serve as a member of the treatment team. Other social welfare workers in the mental health environment assist clients with obtaining services that help them remain stable and functional in the community. In the school setting, a school social worker is concerned with the social welfare of students. This type of social worker works closely with children who may be at risk for dropping out of school, pregnant teens, or children who may have been involved in criminal activity. By meeting with teachers, parents and others involved in a student's life, a school social welfare worker can help a student get assistance needed to avoid getting into further trouble. Other social welfare workers include paraprofessionals that assist professional social welfare workers in helping clients. These positions include therapeutic assistants who work with mental health clients in day treatment programs, transportation aides who may take clients to appointments, and case managers who help with shopping, paying bills and other situations where clients may need assistance. Due to high unemployment, child abuse and neglect, and other issues that plague families today, social welfare jobs will continue to offer security for those who work in the field. Many people would not be able to navigate the maze of paperwork needed for public assistance if it were not for social welfare workers.