The Council has helped Ruvimbo start a successful career as a Social Worker and make a real difference to the lives of other people.
After working across the north of England supporting people with drug and alcohol issues and those experiencing homelessness, Ruvimbo recently joined the Council through the Think Ahead programme, a two-year, fast-track degree that focuses on mental health and helps people on the path to becoming a Social Worker.
Since starting the programme, she has worked in the Mental Health team and now the Learning Disabilities team at the Council, helping people find the right support for them.
Ruvimbo has loved her time with the Council so far and the rewards it brings.
She said: “Going through the Think Ahead programme has really opened my eyes.
“Social Work is about empowering people and I have enjoyed being part of an amazing team that is passionate about people’s rights.
“Social Work is values driven. You get to see the realities that people are facing in the world and work with them to challenge inequalities.
“We’re inspiring people to write their own stories in their own way and that in itself is a real privilege.
“It’s more than a vocation as you’re fighting for something with purpose and that’s what encourages me more than anything else.
“Our role is about promoting people’s wellbeing and we all want to work creatively and flexibly to make a positive change for them.
“As soon as I started my journey with the Council, I felt like I was heard as I had people wanting to sit and listen to my ideas and different approaches. It’s the first role I’ve had where I feel like I’ve truly been listened to.
“I’m in the second year of my course now and I’ve always felt supported and encouraged in my progression.
“The support I’ve received has been absolutely tremendous and everyone has been so nurturing.”
Equality, diversity and inclusion is very close to Ruvimbo’s heart and her role provides an opportunity to work with a wide range of people from different backgrounds.
“I’m always trying to advocate for people to feel empowered to make their own decisions and be more independent,” she added.
“I’m of African heritage and it’s important to work in a service that is very inclusive.
“I can share my life experiences, learn from others and I’ve found that very beneficial.
“I've never felt so supported to be myself as I have at the Council.
“The Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) has an equality, diversity and inclusion group for the north west and I’ve been encouraged to take part.
“It’s all about how we can enhance services and make them more inclusive, trying to open the door for those who are from marginalised communities so they feel like they have representation and can access services.”
The Council’s Adult Social Care teams have plenty of opportunities to progress your career, offering a range of benefits.
Competitive pay for the Adult Social Care sector
Excellent pension scheme with 22 per cent employer contributions – compared to the typical three per cent
Generous holiday allowance of 26 days (pro rata), increasing to 31 days after five years of service
Reward and salary sacrifice schemes
Ongoing training and development opportunities
All of the Council's current vacancies can be found on the website.
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