‘My practice takes me everywhere - why I’d choose a social work career every time’

by Naomi Elendu

Growing up in a community where my cultural identity often made me a target, I experienced first-hand the harsh effects of inequality and the life-changing difference it makes when someone sees and stands with you.

Those early experiences sparked a fire in me. Later, through volunteering and working alongside vulnerable communities, I realised that social work was where my values, skills, and passion aligned.

For me, social work isn’t just a career I stumbled into – it’s a calling shaped by my own lived experience of disadvantage.

'My practice takes me everywhere'

Today, my role is a blend of frontline practice, advocacy and mentorship.

I work within an adult safeguarding team, where my focus is on protecting vulnerable adults, promoting independence and ensuring dignity. I have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, engage with diverse demographics and respond to the unique needs of individuals and families.

It also means that every day – sometimes even hour - is different. My practice takes me everywhere."

One day, I’m in a grand council building, immersed in the quiet hum of power, politics and policy, or in court, challenged by solicitors.

On another, I’m sitting with a family in crisis, listening, assessing risk, and exploring safety. The next, I’m navigating prison security to help a parent in custody nurture their relationship with their child.

One hour, I may be in a spotless, middle-class home considering the best intervention for my neurodivergent client. The next, I’m stepping carefully into a hoarded space so full there's barely room to stand, my stomach knotting at the repercussions of neglect, trauma or mental health challenges.

Yet in both settings, my role is the same: to bring respect, compassion and a plan that restores dignity and hope.

The in-between days

There are in-between times too: rushing between home visits, joining Teams calls from a car park, holding back tears after recommending that a self-neglecting adult can no longer manage their own wellbeing, even when they long to.

There are times of grief, after saying goodbye to someone I've supported for months, sometimes years, after witnessing their growth, pain, resilience, and healing.

Still, afterwards, it’s headphones in, camomile tea beside me, as I’m carefully writing reports, mindful of every word, every tone, knowing language can empower or harm.

'How I’m perceived differs'

How I’m perceived shifts just as much as the settings.

Sometimes, I face distressed parents, fingers pointed and threats flying at me. In those moments, I call on every skill in de-escalation and trauma-informed practice to hold the conversation. Some of the things I have to say no parent wants to hear.

Other times, I’m wrapped in a hug from someone whose life has changed because of our work together. Moments like that? Priceless!"

And then there are the days of teaching and mentorship: standing in a lecture theatre linking theory to practice, or offering encouragement to students, apprentices or newly qualifieds in their first chaotic months in practice.

Helping people maintain relationships

And yesterday? I toured a transport museum to support an adult with a learning disability bond with a family member.

It may have been a court-ordered, supervised contact, but my job was to make it meaningful."

For them, trains and buses weren’t just vehicles; they were shared memories of the past.

Supporting that visit meant helping them maintain a precious relationship, despite the risks. Because relationships are the heart of social work.

The humanity of social work

The media often misses the humanity behind social work. But I see it every day; in my colleagues, my mentees, and the people and families we serve who survive, rebuild, and thrive against all odds.

If you’re just starting out, my biggest advice is this: stay rooted in your values and seek support for your wellbeing from peers and managers.

Every day in this job demands something different. Yes, it’s hard. Yes, it’s misunderstood. But if I had to choose again, I’d choose this career, this life of service every single time.

Naomi is an award-winning social worker, guest lecturer, research ethics panel member and 2025 Unison local service champion. Through ThriveWell Resources, she champions Black mental health and workplace wellbeing.