Michael became interested in social care through his voluntary work. He spent three years as a listening volunteer for the Samaritans and two years as an Association Visitor for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Whilst undertaking an MA in social work Michael completed a placement at the Burton Street Foundation, a community centre for adults and children with learning disabilities. This was his first direct experience of working with people with disabilities and Michael continued to work there as a support worker upon completion of his placement.
Prior to this Michael had always associated disability with limitation, however at his placement he met some of the most intelligent, joyful and inspiring people, who were able to live fulfilling lives with the help and support of their families and social care networks.
Michael worked as a social worker for Sheffield City Council for seven years, ending as an advance practitioner spanning child protection, children with disabilities and community children’s mental health teams.
He is now a lecturer in social work at the University of Derby for both BA and MA degrees, and involved in various research projects centred on areas such as AI and social work writing.
