Parents and carers on Approach Social Work
We asked current participants from the 2025 cohort to share their experiences of starting the programme, managing responsibilities at home and what has helped them succeed.
Balancing the transition into the programme
Starting something new can feel like a big change, especially when you are balancing family life alongside study and placement.
Many participants said preparation helped them feel more ready. This included saving money before starting, organising the home and having honest conversations with family about the support they might need.
“I saved before starting the course and made sure I had a big clear out at home.”
“My family and my partner’s family could see I needed a change and have really stepped up to help in any way they can.”
Support while on the programme
Participants spoke positively about the support they had received from their consultant social worker (CSW), practice tutor, hub and peers.
Some said flexibility around appointments or caring responsibilities had made a real difference. Others highlighted how valuable it was to feel part of the parents’ affinity group.
“My CSW, hub and working team are fantastic in supporting me to manage my caring responsibilities.”
“With the parents’ affinity group, it has been nice to have a network like that is relatable and understanding.”
How parenting experience can help in practice
Some participants said being a parent or carer had shaped the way they build relationships with children and families on placement.
They described having a deeper understanding of the pressures parents can face, as well as greater empathy and awareness of the support families may need.
“Being a parent has really helped me understand how mentally taxing parenting can be, even if you have support.”
Staying organised
Balancing placement, study, assignments and family life can be demanding. Participants said staying organised and planning ahead were key.
Their tips included:
- do a little work often rather than leaving everything to the last minute
- look at assignment briefs early
- break tasks into manageable chunks
- organise notes and resources from the start
- use study days carefully
- ask for support when needed
- simplify routines at home where possible
“Planning ahead saves me a lot of stress and anxiety.”
Staying motivated
During more demanding periods of the programme, participants said it helped to focus on why they started and what they were working towards.
“I remind myself that studying is not forever, but the more I learn this year, the better social worker I will be.”
Others said they stayed motivated by recognising the example they were setting for their own children and taking pride in how far they had come.
Looking after yourself
Participants were honest that switching off is not always easy. But making time for small moments of rest and enjoyment helped.
This included:
- yoga
- walks
- family days out
- watching a good TV programme
- visiting loved ones
- getting outside, even when it felt difficult
“Sometimes just getting out, even if I do not want to, helps a lot.”
Proud moments
Many participants said they felt proud when they looked back at how much they had learned and grown since starting.
“Often I feel I still do not know enough, then when I start discussing things, I’m reminded that I knew none of what I know now at the beginning.”
“At Christmas, I was ready to quit. I did not know the emotional rollercoaster journey I would experience on the course. But now, there has been so much growth and I like the new me so much more.”
Advice for future parents and carers
Participants shared simple but powerful advice for those considering the programme:
“Remember why you started and who is watching you.”
“Do not beat yourself up. A pass is a pass.”
“Take your leave regularly to reset and refocus.”
Getting ready to start in September
If you are a parent or carer preparing to start Approach Social Work this September, you are not alone. Many participants have balanced the programme alongside caring responsibilities and found support, growth and pride in the journey.
We hope these experiences and tips from current participants help you feel more prepared for the months ahead.
If you have questions before starting, please contact the team or speak to your hub for support.