My Life welcome students from The University of Central Lancashire

We’ve been lucky enough to have a group of Social Work students from The University of Central Lancashire join us for their placements.

We found out more about students Hannah and Lisa and what their first impressions of My Life have been!

Hannah

Hannah decided to study Social Work after working as a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator in a nursery. She explains:

“I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at My Life and felt a sense of ‘family’ within the My Life community. It’s very clear to see the caring and trusting relationships staff have built with members.

I was also surprised to see how staff members are able to use the surroundings at My Life to provide educational and sensory opportunities for the members. The large open grounds provide a calming environment for everyone and allow the luxury of having animals on site. I’ve learnt that the members can learn a lot through working with the animals and helping to care for them.

I’ve been able to see first-hand how the horses helped members to relax and I was particularly pleased to see how the staff members provided a person centred and strengths-based approach to each member, ensuring they had an enjoyable sensory experience regardless of their needs.

In the future I hope to continue working with children and families. My Life has taught me the importance of using person-centred approaches to ensure the best care is provided for every individual, and how crucial it is to create a relationship with members built on trust and respect. This is something I will take with me in my social work career.”

Lisa

Lisa decided to pursue a career in social work after working thirteen years for her family’s business. Lisa says:

“I have always been a people’s person and try to stay positive and upbeat, no matter what is thrown my way. Becoming a Social Worker will allow me to be a voice for those who are not heard in our ever-changing society.

My Life CEO Caroline Tomlinson was a guest speaker at university back in 2018 and I was impressed by what she had achieved with My Life Legacy. I feel lucky to be doing my first placement here and am looking forward to learning the ropes.

I love the ‘family’ feel of all the members and staff at My Life and I hope to take new skills I learn during this placement along with me throughout my future career in Social Work. I love the idea of working with people and families in an outdoor setting, in a person-centred way, whilst focusing on the person’s strengths.”