My Incredible First Week of Placement with Upbeat Communities

Our placement student, Caroline Msimanga, is studying for a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Derby. Here, she shares her first impressions of starting her placement with Upbeat Communities.

I started my placement on 22nd March and true to the statement that first impressions make a lasting one, Upbeat Communities has so far lived up to that notion. The organisation embodies their core values, and their culture is deeply imbedded in their work.

At the core of the Upbeat Communities are these key principles: work to welcome; create community; inspired to act with integrity; exist to empower; committed to creativity; run on relationships; proud to be professional and have compassion; and the mission statement: helping strangers become neighbours.

The truth of the matter is that I walked into Upbeat Communities as nervous as one could be on any first placement experience. However, a week later, I truly feel like a valued member of the team. I cannot surmount in words the impact Upbeat Communities has had on me both as a student and in my personal life.

The highlight of my week was participating in voluntary work for the individuals that Upbeat Communities supports. The organisation provides groceries and essentials for asylum seekers and refugees in the city of Derby. I felt privileged to have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Every visit was welcomed with such great appreciation and it was a satisfying and rewarding experience that will be a foundation of my social work journey.

Not only am I eager to learn more and do more, but my mind is already made up on the fact that post my placement, I will definitely stay on as a volunteer. This service is vital and making a positive difference in the lives of so many vulnerable people.

What truly stands out for me is the passion they do it with, as well as the values which are evident from the minute you walk in through Upbeat Communities’ door.

To find out more about the work of this incredible organisation, visit upbeatcommunities.org/upbeat-work, or click here to make a donation.

— Caroline Msimanga, University of Derby (MA Social Work)