Natalie Harris

Heart of Worcestershire College’s (HoW College) BA (Hons) Social Work student, Natalie Harris, brought different generations together to enjoy a ‘Book and Brew’ morning at Church Hill Middle School, Redditch.

Natalie, who is currently studying at HoW College, sought work experience at Onside Advocacy; a charity which supports vulnerable people disadvantaged by disability, mental ill health and learning difficulties.

During her placement, Natalie worked as an Advocate and Community Case Worker.

Discussing what she enjoys most about the placement, Natalie said:

“I enjoy direct work with service users, encouraging them to progress to independence and become happier in their lives.

I’ve also enjoyed the experience of being the service user voice when they are being treated unfairly and challenging poor service provision.”

As part of her work experience, Natalie organised a ‘Book and Brew’ morning; inviting elderly people to Churchill Middle school, to enjoy a choir performance, as well as tea & cake with the students.

Talking about the event, Onside Advocacy member, Adelaide Battersby said:

“It has been lovely to get out the house and meet the children. I have loved talking to them and hearing about what they want to achieve.

The choir performance in the morning was absolutely brilliant.”
When talking about the next 12 months, Natalie hopes to be working as a qualified Social Worker, eventually going into child protection.

Talking about what she enjoys most about studying at HoW College, Natalie stated:

“The social work team are helpful and I have learnt so much from them over the last two years.

I like that the classes are small and feel that any contributions I have made during discussions are valued and respected.”

HoW College delivers a BA (Hons) Social work course in affiliation with Birmingham City University (BCU).