A life changing decision…
Three years ago, Kate was working in a prison and today she’s on the path to become a qualified Social Worker thanks to North Tyneside Council’s apprenticeship programme.
After making the decision to leave the prison in search of a career where she could support people living in the community, Kate began a new role at the Council.
Now one year into her training, Kate is sharing the inspiration behind her decision to change career and move into Adult Social Care.
Speaking of her passion for empowering others, Kate said: “Working with prisoners opened my eyes to social justice and disadvantage. I was keen to find a role that offers more support to vulnerable people.
“I’ve always loved being the key worker for certain prisoners and doing weekly counselling sessions with them. It was these cases where I got to discover the complex backgrounds that some people have had.
“I worked at the prison for three years, before making the move to become a Sheltered Housing Officer at the Council.
“I worked there for a year before I put myself forward for the opportunity to train to become a Social Worker.”
Social Work apprenticeship
In September 2022 Kate started her three-year apprenticeship with The University of Sunderland where she continues to work for the Council while attending university, gaining work experience, and completing academic training.
The course is fully funded by North Tyneside Council as part of its commitment to growing and developing the adult social care sector in North Tyneside.
Kate’s cohort is the fourth group of council colleagues to start their social work training.
Kate’s story in her words..
Kate’s shared her positive experience so far: “I love having contact with so many different people and supporting service users through difficult times, it is so rewarding and I’m really enjoying the course.
“I feel very supported as an apprentice, I work in Care Point and the entire team is supportive and friendly, especially my workplace mentor who will supervise me throughout the process. I’ve also been invited to many training opportunities including student development sessions which are brilliant for learning.
“I’ve already been able to support a service user through a move into a new property and helping her with everything involved, like helping her to get a bank account and claim missed pension payments.
“It’s great to help people to maintain their independence, especially those who have no family around to support.
“It’s a challenging and rewarding career path, no day is the same.”
Kate’s story shows that social care is a career with great progression opportunities. North Tyneside Care Academy provides information and training opportunities for people looking to get into the sector.
If you’re considering a career in Adult Social Care, you can view vacancies with North Tyneside Council here.