Bethany, thank you for joining us today. Could you please introduce yourself, outlining your qualifications, training, and your experience as a social worker?

Thank you for having me. I'm Bethany Erickson Rodriguez, an independent senior social worker with several years of experience. I obtained my social work degree in Canada in 2003 and shortly after moved to the UK, where I began working in a family centre within child protection in Surrey. Over the years, I've specialized in children's services and fostering, with approximately half of my experience dedicated to child protection and the remaining focused on fostering services. I've pursued various post-qualifying education and certifications to enhance my skills in this field. Until 2018, I worked directly with a local authority and fostering services, and since 2019, I've been working independently with organizations like Parent-Help.

What inspired you to pursue this particular profession?

Initially, I was drawn to the idea of helping people, but it was my experiences working for nonprofit organisations that solidified my passion for social work. Witnessing the impact of assisting individuals in realising their potential and overcoming challenges fueled my desire to advocate for others. My journey began with career counselling, where I helped individuals in social services discover their skills and opportunities. This experience underscored the transformative power of support and guidance, reinforcing my commitment to social work. While child protection may have its challenges, I believe in its fundamental purpose and the potential for positive change within the system.

Can you share any personal experiences or influences that led you to choose this career path?

Absolutely. My inspiration stems from my upbringing within a family deeply committed to social justice and community service. My parents, particularly my father, who is a professor of anthropology, instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards those in need. Witnessing my mother's work with asylum seekers and marginalised communities further fueled my passion for social justice. Additionally, experiences such as observing the challenges faced by families living across the street from us and hearing about my father's teaching stint in Africa profoundly impacted my worldview. Moreover, individuals like Meghan Markle, who advocate for social change and empowerment, have served as inspirations for me. Their messages of perseverance and the belief in the power of incremental change deeply resonate with my approach to social work.

How do your personal values align with the principles of social work?

My values centre around community, integrity, and accountability. I believe in the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and support within every community I engage with. Furthermore, I strive to embody integrity and accountability in my interactions, serving as a role model for others. Therapeutic support and the provision of a safe, non-judgmental environment are also fundamental aspects of my practice. I believe in approaching every situation with empathy and a commitment to understanding the unique needs of each individual or family.

What aspects of social work do you find most fulfilling or rewarding?

For me, the most fulfilling aspect of social work lies in witnessing positive change and transformation in the lives of those I serve. Whether it's supporting a family through a crisis or empowering individuals to achieve their goals, knowing that I've made a difference is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the collaborative nature of social work, where I can work alongside various stakeholders to effect systemic change, brings me immense satisfaction.

Have you always known that you wanted to work in this field, or did your career aspirations evolve over time?

My journey into social work was influenced by my upbringing and the values instilled by my family. While I initially pursued other interests, my passion for social justice and community service ultimately led me to this fulfilling career path.

What challenges have you encountered along the way, and how have they shaped your journey in this profession?

There have been numerous challenges, from navigating complex family dynamics to dealing with bureaucratic hurdles within the system. However, each challenge has presented an opportunity for growth and learning. These experiences have reinforced the importance of resilience, empathy, and adaptability in social work. They've also highlighted the need for systemic change to address underlying issues and support vulnerable individuals and families more effectively.

How do you see the role of social work evolving in the future, and how do you hope to contribute to that evolution?

In the future, I envision social work playing a more proactive role in addressing social inequalities and advocating for systemic change. I hope to contribute by continuing to provide high-quality, person-centred support to individuals and families, while also advocating for policy changes and greater investment in social services. Additionally, I aim to mentor and empower the next generation of social workers, fostering a culture of compassion, resilience, and social justice within the profession.

What advice would you give to someone considering entering this profession?

My advice would be to stay true to your values, remain open-minded and adaptable, and never underestimate the power of empathy and human connection. Social work can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding and impactful. It requires resilience, patience, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Embrace the diversity of experiences you will encounter, continuously educate yourself, and seek support when needed. Remember, even the smallest gestures of kindness and understanding can create significant change in someone's life.