‘They taught me about strength and perseverance’ – social work student Taylor on the people he met at New Futures

We offer placements to social work students from universities in Leicester and further afield, enabling dozens of undergraduates to spend between 70 and 100 days here at the project, directly helping the women we support.

Each is placed under the supervision of a qualified social worker and is responsible for a caseload of up to 12 women or young people, giving them invaluable real-life work experience before they resume their studies.

The students say being confronted with the realities of our clients’ lives – including the corrosive effects of homelessness, debt, substance use, mental ill-health, sexual abuse, domestic violence or sex work – has a profound effect on them and gives them an insight into the profession.

Here, 19-year-old De Montfort University student Taylor Rewcastle writes movingly about his time here.

“Embarking on the journey of becoming a social worker is an exciting and challenging endeavour”, Taylor writes.

“As a student social worker, my experience has been transformative, enriching, and deeply rewarding. It has not only helped me grow in confidence, but has also introduced me to incredible people and left me with memories that will last a lifetime.

“When I first started my placement at New Futures, I was filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

“The reality of stepping into a professional environment, with theoretical knowledge felt daunting.

“However, as the days turned into weeks, I began to find my footing.

“My placement at the New Futures Project provided me with opportunities to engage with clients facing complex and diverse challenges.

“One of the most significant ways this experience has shaped me is by building my confidence.

“Early on in my 70-day placement, I doubted my ability to make a meaningful impact. Would I ask the right questions? Could I provide the right support?

“These doubts lingered until I saw the difference that even small gestures of empathy and support could make in someone’s life.

Our social work students, including Taylor, (third from left).

“One moment that stands out was supporting a client through a particularly difficult time. Through consistent communication, active listening, and problem solving, I saw their progress and resilience.

“Seeing their gratitude and renewed sense of hope was a turning point for me.

“This affirmed that that I was on the right path and knew that I could potentially make a difference to peoples life’s.

“This journey also introduced me to some truly remarkable people. Both clients and colleagues.

“The clients I worked with taught me about strength and perseverance. Each story was unique and a ‘testament to the resilience of the human spirit’ – a quote I stole from Nicoleta. 

“Equally inspiring were the other students and Abi (placement manager/practice educator).

They created a supportive environment where I felt encouraged to ask questions, reflect on my practice and take constructive feedback on board.

“They have all made an impact on me individually. So, for that, ‘thank you’.

“Thank you Abi, Sonia, Antonio, Julia, Zain, Nabilah and Jenifer.

“Looking back, this placement has been nothing short of unforgettable.

“It has solidified my passion for social work and reinforced my belief in the importance of this profession.

“The people I’ve met, the stories I’ve heard and the growth I’ve experienced has left an unforgettable mark on me.

“Nelson Mandela once said: ‘There can be no greater gift than giving one person’s time and energy without expecting anything in return’.

“As I move forward in my studies, I carry with me the lessons, memories, and confidence this experience has given me. I feel better equipped to navigate the world of social work.

“I am now more determined than ever to make a difference.

“This journey, though challenging, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and I am grateful for every moment.

“It has been such a privilege to learn from such an amazing organisation. I’m sure at some point in my life I shall cross bridges with each and everybody again.

“Again, in the words of Mandela: ‘It always seems impossible until it is done’.”

Abi Bicknell, student placements manager at the New Futures Project, said: “We truly value each student that joins us here at the project and the immeasurable difference that they make and I feel grateful for each journey that I get to be a part of.

“Providing a real life social work experience is something we are all passionate about and as a charity the social work students are vital to the work that we do – and this group really went above and beyond for the women that we work with.

“Taylor should be very proud of himself and the work and the relationships that he built. He and his fellow cohort were an asset to the team and all will be greatly missed.”

The New Futures Project offers a comprehensive welfare and counselling service for women and young people dealing with sexual abuse or exploitation, domestic violence, trafficking, poverty and debt, substance use or mental ill-health.

Call us on 0116 251 0803 or send us a message at: info@new-futures.org.uk

You can find us at 71 London Road, Leicester, LE2 0PE.