A dream sailed away, makes way for social care solace

When Natalie’s medical discharge ended a seven-year stint serving as a skilled Operator Maintainer on Type 23 frigates in the Royal Navy – her dream job – she developed an aspiration to follow a new career path in social care.

Leaving her sea-life behind, and in a community carer position, Natalie spent a brief stretch undertaking some nursing training where she truly discovered her desire to be in social care. Securing a position within the Local Authority’s adult social care team, and a year spent supporting discharges from local community hospitals whilst working closely with the social workers, was just the beginning for Natalie. 

“I knew that going to university to train as a social worker wasn’t financially viable for me.” However, when the Local Authority extended their professional development with an OU Social Worker Degree Apprenticeship programme, Natalie took a considered approach “at the grand old age of 40 and reflecting on potentially another 30 years of employment, I just had to apply – and the rest is history!” 
 
“The flexible week-by-week planning is useful, the tutors are helpful, and the materials are easy to understand - it’s like having a library in your laptop!” 

Training on the apprenticeship route has enabled Natalie to continue to work whilst taking on more complex responsibilities with guidance, and most importantly “never feeling like I was on my own. All the social workers in my small team inspire me with their knowledge, practice experience, and always taking the time to explain things to me”. 

Currently enjoying her first 70-day placement with the Family Safeguarding Team, and looking forward to her next module, Natalie is already implementing an advanced approach to both her study and work. “I’m more confident and equipped with a better understanding of working with adults and the Care Act 2014. I’ve enhanced my professional relationships with colleagues as I now understand the theories that I was previously (and unknowingly) using”.

The pursuit of a new career is only one commitment in Natalie’s life, she juggles working and training alongside raising a family, as well as being an active member of a local carnival club. It’s not all plain sailing though… “I was voted in as stage captain and choreographer for my carnival group, and honestly wasn’t sure how I would manage to balance everything. Thankfully, I’ve not had to make a tough decision as lockdown has led to the cancellation of events and parades.”

Natalie’s employer has worked closely with OU colleagues to plan her training, and support with active communication. They’ve granted one day per week as protected time for study leave, as well as organising professional development sessions where many apprentices meet for in-depth, shared, learning support. 

On reflection, Natalie says “The world is my oyster! There are so many options available to me once I complete my learning”

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