Shakira Johnson

Dedicated and compassionate final-year BA (Hons) Social Work student at London South Bank University, predicted to achieve a 2:1, seeking to undertake ASYE within statutory services. Through two contrasting placements in both adult and children's services, I have developed practical experience in housing-related floating support and statutory Children in Need (CIN) and Child Protection (CP) work. Strengthened skills in assessment, safeguarding, multi-agency collaboration, and direct work with service users and families.

Committed to anti-oppressive and strengths-based practice, promoting empowerment, autonomy, and improved outcomes for those I support.

Student Social Worker – Children in Need & Child Protection (Statutory Placement) at Hillingdon Local Authority (2025-11 – 2026-06)

Worked within a statutory children and families team supporting children subject to CIN and CP plans.

• Attended and contributed to strategy meetings, core group meetings, and child protection conferences.
• Assisted in assessing whether cases met the threshold for significant harm under Section 47.
• Undertook direct work with children and families to assess lived experiences and outcomes.
• Conducted home visits to monitor safeguarding concerns and parenting capacity.
• Supported the completion of CIN and CP assessments in line with statutory guidance.
• Aided parents in developing safer and more effective parenting strategies.
• Created referrals to Early Help, domestic abuse services, CAMHS, food banks, and other relevant services.
• Contributed to risk assessments and safety planning.
• Applied relevant legislation including the Children Act 1989 and Working Together to Safeguard Children.
• Maintained detailed and analytical case recordings within statutory timeframes.
• Engaged resistant families using relationship-based practice while maintaining professional boundaries.

Student Social Worker – Floating Support (Non-statutory Placement in Adults) at Hestia – Ealing (2025-11 – 2025-03)

Provided housing-related and practical support to vulnerable adults with complex needs including mental health difficulties, learning disabilities, and social isolation.

• Supported service users in navigating 'Locata' housing system, bidding for properties and understanding housing rights.
• Assisted service users with PIP applications, gathering medical evidence and completing detailed forms to maximise successful outcomes.
• Facilitated referrals and coordinated assessments to secure care packages and carers.
• Undertook fortnightly home visits to assess wellbeing and safety of my clients.
• Maintained weekly welfare calls to monitor progress and reduce risk of crisis.
• Completed needs and risk assessments using a strengths-based approach.
• Supported service users with accessing community resources and reducing social isolation.
• Worked collaboratively with housing officers, DWP, GP services, and mental health teams.
• Maintained accurate case recordings in line with GDPR and organisational policy.
• Promoted independence while balancing safeguarding responsibilities.

Volunteer at Special Olympics Gambia (2024-11-14 – 2024-11-28)

Special Olympics Gambia is a non-profit organisation that provides sports training and competitions for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities and promote inclusion and community engagement.

• Assisted in organising and supporting a community sports event.
• Provided on-sight support to athletes and staff during activities.
• Contributed to event coordination and general administrative tasks.

Carer – Child with Cerebral Palsy at Begum family (2023-09 – 2024-07)

Provided consistent, person-centred care, ensuring safety, wellbeing, and developmental needs were met.

• Preparing nutritious meals tailored to her dietary and health requirements.
• Supporting with personal care, including bathing and dressing, while maintaining dignity and respect.
• Transporting and accompanying her to medical and therapy appointments.
• Facilitating engaging and stimulating activities to promote cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• Supporting mobility and ensuring a safe and structured environment.
• Communicating effectively with parents and healthcare professionals regarding her wellbeing and progress.

BA (Hons) in Social Work – London South Bank University (LSBU) (2026-10)