Affinity groups

Sarah Wilson – Mature Students Affinity Group

My name is Sarah (she/her), and I’ll be helping to facilitate the Mature Students Affinity Group. I wanted to be part of this space because I know how valuable it is to connect with others who are balancing work and study with the many responsibilities that life can bring. Mature students bring unique strengths and a wealth of experience to social work, and I’m excited to help build a supportive community where we can learn from and encourage each other throughout this journey. 

Andrew Woodbridge – Career Changers Affinity Group

My name is Andrew; the man, the myth, the legend. I will be helping to facilitate the Career Changers group. Having spent the last 15 years serving in the military and now moving into a social work career, I am excited to meet other people who are in a similar position to me, and starting a new chapter in their working lives. 

Nicoletta Barrett – Career Changers Affinity Group

Hi, I’m Nicoletta, I’ll be helping to facilitate the career changers affinity group. I’ve previously worked as an actor, teacher and carer. I’m also a parent to my ten year old daughter. I’m interested in how lived experience and career change can enrich our social work journey. All are welcome, no matter your background or experience.

I hope participants will be able to feel empowered and confident, connect with others and support each other with empathy.

Rosie Fellows – Intersectional Feminism in Social Work Group

My name is Rosie (she/her) and I’ll be helping to facilitate the Intersectional Feminism in Social Work Group.  My curiosity was sparked when I saw this group and I’d love to meet with others interested in exploring social work practice through the lens of intersectionality. I’ll hold an inclusive space where we ask questions of ourselves, each other and wider society, share experiences, both lived and observed and co-create an active learning space together. 

Leanne Pollock – Parents and Carers Affinity Group

Hi, I’m Leanne, mum to a 7 year old boy and a psychology graduate with ADHD. I’m the facilitator for the Parents and Carers group. I am hoping this will be a space where we can connect and share experiences with others, who are also navigating the unique challenges and rewards that caring for children or loved ones brings. 

I joined this group because I know how powerful community support can be, especially when life feels chaotic or overwhelming. My hope is that everyone who takes part feels a little more seen, heard and supported. 

Farzana Begum – Islam and Social Work Affinity Group

I wanted to create a space where we can speak comfortably about our faith and build a small social circle to connect, support, and uplift one another. Islam can influence so many parts of our lives, from our mindset and values to the way we dress and carry ourselves, and it’s important to have connections with people who understand those experiences. As a hijabi Muslim woman, I’d love the opportunity to get to know more people in the social work field like myself. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all and sharing this space together.

Saul Lyons – Recent Graduates Affinity Group

Hello, I’m Saul Lyons and I will be helping to facilitate the Recent Graduates Affinity Group. I chose this group so as to connect with others who are transitioning from university into social work, hopefully to create a space where we can support each other in this journey! A fun fact about me: I spent two months as a parliamentary intern for the Leader of the Opposition as part if my degree, I even got the chance to meet Kier Starmer at 10 Downing Street! 

Louise Ruston – Christianity and Social Work Affinity Group

Hi, I’m Louise and I’m proud to be supporting the Christianity and Social Work Affinity Group. I came to faith 2 years ago and have been on an incredible journey ever since. My relationship with God has become a central part of my life, and I know it will be a vital foundation as I grow into my role as a social worker.  

I wanted to be involved in this group because I’m passionate about connecting with others who share a similar outlook – those who view their faith as an integral part of shaping the way they care for others, approach their learning and develop their careers. I’m really looking forward to building community, creating a safe space and encouraging faith-based support as we go through this journey together. 

Will Morritt – LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group

My name is Will, and I will be helping to facilitate the LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group. I am a huge music lover and am open to most genres. I love hearing what others are listening to, particularly from different cultures, as I love Eurovision!  

This group is a safe space for you to share your individual experiences, find support and make connections. I know it can be quite isolating in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I hope we can develop a supportive online group. 

Dinah Ofosu – Black and Minority Ethnic Participants Affinity Group

My name is Dinah (she/her). I’m excited to be part of the Black and Minority Ethnic affinity group, where I look forward to learning, sharing my experiences and supporting others. I had the opportunity to pioneer a dissertation project in collaboration with a mental health charity called Several Seats, which supports BAME women,  and academic lecturers from the University of Bedfordshire. Find out more about this project: Breaking Barriers: Ethnic Minority Women in Leadership.

Vicki Herridge – Mental Health and Wellbeing Affinity Group

Hello, my name is Vicki (she/her) and I will he helping to facilitate the Mental Health and Wellbeing affinity group. I wanted to provide a safe place to anyone who may struggle with their own mental health, or experience heighted stress during busy periods and need some help to navigate this. I recently learnt I have anxiety, which blew my mind (no pun intend), yet it made the most sense when it was explained to me. I have completed a Mental Health First Aid course to support adults and child.