Social_Work

A combination of work experiences and personal reasons fuel my passion towards a career in social work. My current role as an Advisor within a welfare to work organisation has allowed me to work directly with a variety of people facing multiple barriers into employment. My role involves providing one to one support, advice and guidance,designed to aid clients with life skills such as budgeting, money management, helping service users to access information relevant to their needs and assisting them to develop a higher level of independence and improved communication and social skills. The overall aim is to support clients back into work; this has allowed me to develop skills and qualities that are necessary within a social work setting. This includes patience, resilience and strong communication especially when dealing with sensitive issues.I have also become more aware of my own values and beliefs whilst showing respect for all people and taking a non judgmental approach. Part of my current role involves maintaining and updating internal databases, and keeping detailed records of all contact made with clients and report writing.I have experience of liaising with representatives from a wide range of external agencies including the Probation Service. I am skilled in effectively relaying important information in an accurate and timely manner, allowing for transparency when communicating with internal staff and partner organisations. My experience in this role has really opened my eyes and has allowed me to become deeply concerned for the welfare of vulnerable young people and adults. As members of a larger society I feel that we all have a moral duty to be concerned for each other. That is why I believe the work of social workers is vital in ensuring that vulnerable members of society have access to services allowing for an improved the quality of life and personal development. My Sociology degree explored how individual lives are shaped by social and cultural circumstances. I was given the opportunity to explore a wide range of topic areas related to social work such as family, crime and justice and social exclusion. I have also carried out my own personal study on this subject;I have enjoyed reading around academic and newspaper articles which have fuelled my interest in gaining a more in-depth knowledge of working with different types of people and their problems. I am eager to learn more and look forward to studying further about the law and how that shapes the role of a Social Worker. I undertook a Peer Counseling course in 2006;it offered younger students with any problems the opportunity to discuss them with me or a member of my team in a confidential setting. This course helped me to understand and help with problems young people go through during the teenage and adolescent years. I currently volunteer within my local community, working with a large team of volunteers from across London, promoting the personal, educational and social development of young people aged between thirteen and nineteen. I assist members with various projects including hosting community events, musical projects and creative tasks such as poetry, photography. I also offer support, advice and guide young members towards making a positive contribution to their local community. I have a strong desire to working with people to help make a difference in their lives. Most importantly, working with children and families in addition to helping people overcome obstacles and difficulties and making the most of themselves. As an applicant,I will bring with me an enthusiasm and motivation and dedication for this subject. My key skills are resilience and the ability to handle pressure, which makes me a strong candidate for what is challenging yet very rewarding career.