Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions.

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How do I Register?

Registering with Prospero is easy. Simply answer a few questions here.

Where do I find a timesheet?

Please email info@prosperohealthandsocial.com to speak to us about any of your timesheet queries.

What makes a good CV?

Your CV is the first way you introduce yourself to an employer so it is important to use it to make a great impression. It needs to be clear, easy to read and relevant to the job you are applying for. We can always help you in the right direction if you’re struggling with your CV with tailored help in getting it looking the best it can be.

 

What documents do I need to be considered for jobs?

When you become a candidate with Prospero, we will ask you to complete a full compliance checklist and ask for a series of documents including:

  • Your original qualifications
  • Your original social work registration certificate
  • Scanned copies of your passport and any relevant visa documents
  • Professional and personal references are obtained at the time of appointment
  • These documents will be scanned and attached to your file for future reference.

We will also make Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

Do you take on newly qualified workers?

It is difficult for newly qualified social workers to become locums straight away due to the extra support that they require. This is not something that would normally be provided to temporary or contract staff.

Generally, you need at least 12-18 months’ local authority experience as a social worker after completing any period of protected workload and support, such as the ASYE.

How do I get paid?

We are aligned to a number of recognised umbrella companies and whichever one you join, you will receive pay on-time, weekly and directly into your bank account.
We also have the option of being paid through PAYE. However, being paid through an Umbrella company is more flexible as PAYE is tied to one day a week for you to be paid so timesheets must be submitted on time every week.

To process a pay claim all you will need to do is download and print a copy of our timesheet, fill it in and have it signed by a manager or relevant person at the client who can approve/authorise timesheets.

Once you have finished filling in your timesheet simply send it to our Payroll Department on time at TimesheetsNorth@prosperogrp.com, TimesheetsSouth@prosperogrp.com, or TimesheetsCentral@prosperogrp.com and they will do the rest.

What is the difference between PAYE and an Umbrella Company?

We are aligned to a number of recognised umbrella companies and whichever one you join, you will receive pay on-time, weekly and directly into your bank account.
We also have the option of being paid through PAYE. However, being paid through an Umbrella company is more flexible as PAYE is tied to one day a week for you to be paid so timesheets must be submitted on time every week.

PAYE Gross rate appears as lower because an Umbrella company gross rate is inclusive of employers costs. One of the benefits of being paid through an Umbrella Company is if you work for multiple agencies they are able to organise the pay for you so you are not over taxed. Being paid on time through both an Umbrella company and PAYE is dependent on if your timesheets are submitted on time.

How much experience do I need in order to become a locum?

Generally, you would need 12-18 months’ local authority experience as a social worker after completing any period of protected workload and support as a newly qualified social worker. Every manager is different, but very few will consider newly qualified social workers for locum.

What is usual for a support worker salary?

Support worker salary in the UK can vary depending on various factors such as the region, employer, level of experience, and the specific field of support work.

On average, the annual salary for a support worker in the UK ranges from £16,000 to £25,000. However, this figure can vary significantly. Entry-level support workers or those with limited experience might earn closer to the lower end of the range, while experienced support workers, those in supervisory roles, or those working in specialized areas may earn higher salaries.

Any more questions?