Internships and placements work

Internships and placements work at CASSPLUS

Over the last year, we’ve seen record numbers of interns, volunteers and student placements here. Internships and placements work for everyone. As a result, so much can be gained all-round:

- The person builds relevant skills, knowledge and experience for the workplace
- CASS+ has an expanded frontline team, enabling us to reach more people at court

It’s a double-whammy.

Jess, one of two social work placements 2023-24

Jess* is in her second year studying Social Work at the University of Plymouth. She hit the ground running in children’s services and now she’s broadening her experience with adults here at CASS+.

Her energy is impressive.

Drivers for crime

There are many reasons for someone committing a crime. One thing we do know, poverty and mental health issues are often main drivers. There is deprivation in Plymouth. This means that we have a high proportion of people with limited opportunities. For instance, people are being driven to steal by the cost-of-living crisis. Self-medicating is common and we see a lot of alcohol-related cases. Consequently, we see a lot of alcohol-related cases. This is why we work so closely with Hamoaz House, Harbour and We Are With You. However, it’s very rarely just one thing.

Support at court – one step at a time

Jess picks up here:

One person has been referred to us by Witness Services. She had been burgled. This client had lost her dad at the time of the burglary so everything came to a head. It’s complicated. As a result, she needs to be brave and go through Court. Giving her space to talk has made all the difference. Most importantly, we now have a support plan in place and this should improve her mental health. I’m looking forward to helping her improve her situation.

How does Jess feel now?

I know that this work placement is very good preparation for my career as a Social Worker. No two days are ever the same. It feels so good to help someone with much-needed practical advice and emotional support. I aim for empathy. Most importantly, I want everyone who comes through our door to feel listened to and in control of the decision-making. We do things with them and not to them. They must feel heard. We prioritise their voice and wishes. It means so much to me to fill in a form, get some funding through, and help someone feel safe and secure after months of worry. As a result, this is very rewarding work.

Supporting in the right way

Most importantly, we see people of all ages, gender, race and religion. Consequently, I’m understanding how to put my judgement and bias to one side. To sum up, we all have rights and I’ve learnt to make sure that this doesn’t affect my professional practice.