To think about what led me to study Social Work is difficult; one could say that I am still searching for the answer… I feel that I always shall be. This is not to suggest that I was not clear before starting the journey, but there is more to it than simply looking at ‘helping’ individuals, groups and communities – for me the reasons are complex.
On the first day of induction at university in 2011, I demanded to know if Human Trafficking was part of the Social Work curriculum. I was disappointed to be made aware that Human Trafficking only happens on a global scale and it is not an issue that happens nationally. I can truly state to this date that it happens and is taking place on our doorstep.
I have a mission for Social Work to be at the forefront of protecting, educating and rehabilitating victims of this all too often hidden crime. This is especially after disclosure also when a victim can be seen to be in further danger.
There is still a long way to go until I can fulfill my ambition to work as a Social Worker in collaboration with the UK Human Trafficking Centre (I’m not joking) in partnership with other organisations that are actively involved in helping adult and child victims. I will keep trying and ploughing through the fields of knowledge to pursue my ambition….let’s see what the future holds.
ManishaMahen 