Student Peer Support at BASW

BASW Student Ambassadors tell us how they've benefited from BASW's Student Peer Support Group.
Student CPD

In the ever-evolving world of social work, a supportive community is invaluable for both students and newly qualified professionals. Leigh-Anne Coffey, Stacy Procter, Michelle Riddall and Nicola Maguire, BASW Student Ambassadors, and Ioan Racasan, former ambassador and now an NQSW, recognised this need and created a platform for connection and collaboration—the BASW Student Peer Support Group. This online meeting space is a haven for BASW student and NQSW members, offering a monthly drop-in forum that is both free of charge and rich in support.

Monthly Drop-In Forum:

The BASW Peer Support Group hosts a monthly drop-in forum, welcoming all BASW students and NQSW’s to connect and network within a wider cohort. This regular gathering serves as an informal space where students and newly qualified social workers can come together to share experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The open and welcoming atmosphere encourages members to engage in peer support, fostering a sense of community that is both mutually beneficial and empowering.

Mutual Support in an Informal Setting:

At the heart of the BASW Peer Support Group is the commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for its members. Within these forums, students and newly qualified social workers are invited to openly share ideas, knowledge, issues, and experiences. This informal setting allows for genuine connections to form, creating a space where individuals can seek advice, offer insights, and build lasting professional relationships.

Special Guests and Diverse Participation:

To enrich the dialogue and broaden perspectives, the group regularly invites relevant special guests to the forum. This not only adds valuable expertise to the discussions but also ensures that members are exposed to a diverse range of insights within the field of social work. With a mix of regular and new participants each month, the BASW Peer Support Group has become a dynamic hub for insightful perspectives. 

Free Access for BASW Student Peer Support Special Interest Group:

The accessibility of the BASW Peer Support Group is a testament to BASW's commitment to its student and NQSW members. For BASW members, accessing the BASW Student Peer Support group is free of charge. Demonstrating BASW’s dedication to supporting the next generation of social work professionals, ensuring they have the tools and connections they need to thrive in the world of social work. 

Leigh-Anne Coffey, Stacy Procter and Michelle Riddall were invited to speak on the Social Work Sorted Podcast about the value of peer support, which can be accessed here.

Join us at the next BASW peer support group meet up:

The BASW Student Peer Support Group meet at 6pm, for an hour, on the last Thursday of every month. You can book on using the evens page on the BASW website here (log-in required).