Social Worker Review

Working with children services to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in the local authority of Manchester. My role as an apprentice is to support social to cary out their duties. I completed direct work with children and wrote assessments and care plans as well as attended and chaired various meetings.

I have learned how to write assessments and a lot about what goes into the background of statutory policy. I have learned to understand the theory behind some of the decisions used to make plans for children in the care system. I am better aware of why children services is needed and how it works.

I enjoyed my programme greatly. I made new friends and we have all supported each other through our learning journeys. I enjoyed attending MMU, especially their Brooks building which is a lovely space to learn in. Staff at the University have been supportive and helpful throughout my learning journey. It has been great.

The programme was well organised and once I knew how to navigate the system, it was manageable.

My employers were brilliant. I received a lot of support to complete my work, including regular days off to complete assignments, study and attend university days. I was also supported by my manager in university meetings in regards to my progress and my manager was always interested in what assignment I was writing and was there to offer advice.

Manchester Metropolitan University were supportive in helping me work towards my qualification of BSc Degree in Social Work. They helped me understand the key principles of social work and social theory which has absolutely gone towards informing my practice as a Social Worker for Manchester City Council Local Authority Children Services.

I absolutely feel that my qualification (through my training provider) has helped me to perform better in my role. I know have a greater understanding of policy, law and theory that underpins Social Work in both children’s services and adults services for Manchester City Council Children services. I am thankful for that.

Manchester City Council have lots of extra-curricular activities to get involved in at my work. There are social activities such as team meals out or nights out depending on your team. There are sports teams such as football or netball you can join. They have relaxation programs where you can meditate and even faith rooms.

Yes

Manchester city council is trying its best to invest in its workforce and create a great working environment and culture. There are many senior leaders that are invested in promoting Black, Asian and Ethnic minority people in their struggles against oppression and discrimination. I am proud to be working alongside some proactive people.

The advice and tips I would give to others applying to Manchester City Council are to definitely go for it. It’s a great council to work for. Be mindful and do some research of the team you are joining and your manager because a great manager can make all the difference.