Social workers play an indispensable role in our society.
In Hull, there are hundreds of social workers. One such worker is Stacie King.
The 30-year-old works as a newly qualified social worker for Hull City Council. She has been in the post for eight months, helping vulnerable adults through what can be described as often difficult and challenging periods of their lives.
One of the people she works with is 74-year-old Denise. Stacie was drafted in to support her after she suffered a fall at her home which resulted in a fractured leg.
Stacie said: “I came to support Denise in her home by helping her to make the necessary adaptions she needed to live comfortably.
“Since her accident, she has limited mobility and needs support to move around her home, which also means that she now lives downstairs as she is unable to walk upstairs. Denise also requires support with personal care, dressing and preparing all of her meals.
“I appreciate how losing her independence makes Denise feel, so I’m conscious that I always discuss all aspects of her care with her and listen to her needs.
“Listening is one of the most important things I do in this role, as those receiving care are the experts of their own life and will tell you themselves exactly what they need from you. I can then fill in any gaps and discuss the options available.”
However prior to her role as a social worker, Stacie served in the Royal Navy for two years, travelling the world and working in the Falklands.
The Falklands is known for its abundance of birdlife
Stacie said: “I spent my younger years living life as fully as I possibly could from being in the Royal Navy to travelling on my own for two years. I’ve always had a passion for meeting new people, hearing their amazing stories and empowering them to achieve their dreams.
“Social work was a perfect career fit for me as I get to meet new people, hear amazing stories and support people to achieve their goals.”
As an active recovery social worker, Stacie usually works with vulnerable adults for up to six weeks, ensuring they are able to either recover during this time with the right support, or secure adequate long-term provision for their needs.
Stacie said: “Continuous professional development is vital in social work due to the ever changing landscape we practice in. Every Thursday I attended training sessions to improve and strengthen my practice, in turn providing a better experience for the people I work with.
“After eight months in social work I can say I am happy with my career choice, I thoroughly enjoy meeting the people I work with and listening to their stories. I have great job satisfaction from supporting them to achieve their goals and hope I am a stepping stone to their future successes.”
World Social Work Day takes place on Tuesday 17 March and celebrates some of the fantastic work social workers do in communities day in day out. This year’s theme focuses on the importance of human relationships. Read more here.
