I’ve always worked out in the community but it wasn’t until my world was suddenly turned upside down in 2015, when I suffered a stroke, that I found my true calling in social work. This World Social Work day, I’m excited to share my career journey.
It took me two years to make a full recovery but my social worker who supported me throughout made a huge difference to me mentally and physically. They helped me believe that recovery truly was possible. Once I was well enough to work again, I knew exactly what I wanted to do – return to university to study social work. I saw an opportunity to do good and I took it.
I’ve been a social worker in the Operational Commissioning Team at Leicestershire County Council since 2021, working with adults living with cognitive and physical disabilities in the Melton Mowbray area.
Every day brings unique challenges and problem-solving demands, as I switch between preparing assessments and making calls which will help my clients access the support they need and hands-on visits at home, hospital or residential homes.
The county council provides an incredibly supportive environment for social workers, which has allowed me to hone my skills and consistently build confidence in practice. I’ve taken part in multiple training opportunities since I began my career, from an ‘assessed year’ in employment to helping a social work student complete her final placement, which was incredibly rewarding.
No two days are the same in the busy life of a social worker but the county council’s flexible working options, a professional wellbeing service and culture of open communication helps me to manage mental, emotional and practical challenges when they arise.
I’m a passionate advocate for social justice. By empowering clients to make their own independent choices, supporting them to remain in control of their own lives and enacting lasting change, I’m proud to say I’m able to live my passion through my daily work.
There’s always room to grow and learn on my social work journey but each time I receive feedback from a grateful individual or family member, explaining the impact I made on their loved one’s life, it always humbles me and fuels my motivation and purpose.
Could you make a difference too? Explore our social work opportunities today on the council's jobs page.