Meet Ciara

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what you’re studying?

Hi, I’m Ciara and I’m currently studying Masters in Social Work at Glasgow Caledonian University. Previously, I studied my Undergraduate Honours degree at Stirling University which was Criminology and Sociology. For around 5 years now I have worked in various social care jobs. However, for the last 2 years I have worked in private sector children’s residential and have recently started a new job with North Lanarkshire Council in one of the children’s houses.

What made you decide to do your placement with us?

COVEY was a great fit for my third sector placement as I am keen to understand more about how the third sector support young people and their families following a referral from social work or other agencies. I was also drawn to COVEY because of their holistic, community-based approach.

What are you hoping to learn or gain from this experience?

During my placement I hope to develop my relationship building skills whilst also gaining more confidence in applying theory to practice. I also hope to gain some positive outcomes with my 1-1 matches during the short time I have with them and to gain experience in facilitating group work as this is an area I have no experience in yet. I am also hoping to gain some experience within the Cashback project as this is something that aligns closely with future goals.

What skills or strengths do you feel you bring to your role as a volunteer?

I feel as though I have good communication and relationship building skills which will improve my ability to build trusting relationships with the young people. I have good knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities and find myself able to stay calm in challenging situations that might arise.

What has been your favourite part of the placement so far?

I have enjoyed my time so far meeting everyone and also meeting almost all of my 1-1 matches. I have really liked how welcoming everyone has been and how comfortable I have been made feel!

Is there anything that has surprised you or been different from what you expected?

I was surprised at the range of support COVEY is able to offer to young people and their families. Despite reading about COVEY before starting my placement, I have found out since starting there is so much more support available!

What would you like to do in the future after finishing your studies?

Once qualified, I hope to work within a statutory children and families team and gain some experience in this sector. I would then like to move on and work as a Youth Justice social worker. So maybe, in the future, I could be working alongside COVEY!