Charmaine Edwards

As a social work student, my practical experiences have significantly enriched my academic understanding of core social work principles, particularly in relation to crisis intervention, advocacy, and family dynamics. Supporting a family member through an acute crisis allowed me to apply theoretical frameworks—such as systems theory—and in person, an environment perspective in a real-world context. This experience required me to coordinate care, navigate services, and offer sustained emotional support, all of which align with the Professional Capabilities Framework. My academic studies have helped me understand the importance of relationship-based practice and effective communication in promoting service- users well being. Completing these modules has also deepened my understanding of ethical decision making and anti - oppressive practice and the significance of cultural competence. Collectively, these experiences enahanced my ability to critically analyse and apply social work theory to practice, preparing me to engage with service users in a professional, empathetic, and informed manner. Furthermore, my lived experience as a mother who has successfully lived herself out of homelessness has profoundly shaped my academic and practical approach to the profession. This journey has provided me with a deep personal understanding of the structual inequalities,systemic barriers and the emotional toll faced by families in a crisis. It has also instilled in me strong sense of resilience, empathy and determination- qualities essential to social work practice. Drawing on this experience, I am uniquely positioned to engage and support indivduals and families experiencing similar challenges, offering theortical knowledge but also genuine insight and relatbility. Reinforcing my commitment to advocacy, social justice, and holistic, person- centred support, aligning closely with the values abd ethics underpinning the social work profession.

In addition to my academic and personal experiences, I have been recognised through awards such as Employee of the Month and have served as a student representative, both of which highlight my dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Being selected as Employee of the Month reflects my strong work ethic and reliability. My role as Student Rep has further developed my communication, advocacy, and organisational skills, actively listening to peers' concerns and collaborating with the learning facility to bring about meaningful changes. These achievements demonstrated my ability to lead and advocate and maintain high-key standards—key competencies that align with the professional expectations of a social worker.