Social work student placements are the perfect student placement. Students studying at the University of Plymouth get invaluable six months’ experience. Working alongside our in-court advisors, they start their careers providing practical advice and emotional support for vulnerable people facing many disadvantages.
Ideal learning ground
Our students are addressing the underlying reasons for people finding themselves at court. As a result, they are gaining valuable experience for their future careers as social workers.
Nicole
Nicole comes from a family of carers and they haven’t looked back since arriving here from Zimbabwe in 2024. This is the perfect student placement inside Truro Magistrates’ Court. Here, she is learning on the job. We asked Nicole to share some of the cases she has been supporting:
‘There are a lot of young adults in Cornwall who need support and end up offending. Nobody has shown them the way. I want to work with the Zimbabwe community – I can see the needs.
PIP tribunals
I have been helping Sharon* who needed support at her PIP tribunal. She did not know how to complete all the complicated forms. She was struggling to focus and think clearly. We have helped her with her paperwork. On top of this, we have supported her with her mental and physical health needs.
We joined her for the tribunal and encouraged her to be herself. With our help, she was able to share her story honestly and clearly. As a result, the judge listened. Thankfully, her appeal was successful. We really celebrated when she was awarded her PIP.
Working with our partners across Cornwall
We have referred Sharon to our local partner, the Penreath Centre. This support has enabled her to move forward.
Nicole’s perfect student placement
For this client, I have helped to gather lots of evidence, like NHS reports. I have also ensured that all the forms were completed correctly.
Change is possible
It’s so rewarding to support people into rehab, accommodation and safe houses. We shouldn’t judge someone for their past. Change is possible.
Plans for the future
This perfect student placement has given me the opportunity to work out where to specialise in the future. I’m interested in supporting young adults. Working inside the courts has shown me the huge need for mental health professionals. Critically, there’s a need for mental health specialists in children’s services. I’m looking forward to making a difference as a social worker.’
Interested in finding a student placement?
Perfect student placements are available at CASS+. Contact admin@cassplus.org to find out more about working inside the courts in Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Bodmin or Truro.
*Name changed to protect anonymity.
