seniorspectrumnewspaper – Frontline social work is often demanding, but many professionals find deep purpose and satisfaction in their roles. According to Sarah Blackmore executive director of professional practice and external engagement at Social Work England. Most social workers take pride in their work despite the challenges. Their motivation often stems from core values such as social justice. Human rights, and a genuine desire to help others live better lives. These values not only inspire them to enter the field but also keep them committed, even through difficult situations.
Charlie Hornsbury, a social worker at West Sussex County Council, was once a child in care. His own lived experience fuels his passion for the job. He chose to give back to the system that supported him, and now he works with around 20 children, helping them reach their potential. From encouraging better school attendance to supporting university ambitions, Hornsbury says each child’s success feels like a shared victory. For him, social work is far more meaningful than his previous careers in accounting or catering.
Meghan Peacock, based in Oxfordshire, was inspired by her childhood experience of caring for her mother. Now a practicing social worker, she performs face-to-face visits and care needs assessments. Meghan values the strength-based approach she uses, which focuses on what people are good at rather than just what they lack. Her role includes helping people through complex challenges—such as guiding someone out of an abusive relationship or helping a man with dementia maintain independence. She credits her team’s close-knit culture for enabling her to carry out emotionally demanding work. For Peacock, the results are what matter most, and they keep her motivated every day.
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Diverse Backgrounds, Shared Goals: What Draws People to Social Work
Many professionals arrive at social work from different paths, each bringing unique experiences that shape their practice. Lucy Isherwood, a team manager in Cornwall’s child protection and court division, previously studied law and politics and worked in the charity sector. She describes her transition into social work as a natural evolution—every step she took led her closer to the profession. What stands out to her most is the privilege of being allowed into people’s homes and lives. Now managing a team, she spends her time guiding social workers through complex decisions and reviewing documentation. Even in a leadership role, she emphasizes the importance of team wellbeing. She actively promotes a supportive workplace culture through initiatives like yoga, meditation, and wellness days to help staff maintain emotional balance.
Nicola Wheat is at the beginning of her career and recently completed her assessed and supported year in employment. With structured training, supervision, and space for personal growth, she has found her footing in Oxfordshire’s social work system. What drives her is the human connection—listening to people share their stories and knowing she can make a difference. Wheat says she feels proud of her work and is eager to tell others about the impact social work can have on individuals and communities alike.
Redefining Social Work: More Than What People Expect
Miriam Williams, once a frontline child protection worker, now serves as a local authority designated officer for the West Sussex Safeguarding Children Partnership. Her role is not what many imagine when they think of a social worker. Instead of direct client work, she focuses on managing allegations made against professionals who work with children, such as teachers, police officers, and foster carers. This responsibility requires careful communication with employers and other agencies to ensure appropriate action is taken and children remain protected.
In addition to overseeing cases, Williams trains professionals on how to recognize signs of concern and when to refer cases for further review. She emphasizes that her current role, although behind the scenes, plays a critical part in child safety. What drives her is the knowledge that her work helps prevent harm and promotes a safer environment for children. For Williams, social work is not just a profession—it’s a commitment to safeguarding and supporting future generations.
