Reflective Case Studies

Cherie Bryce - Reflective Analytical Study

The purpose of this reflective analytical study is to focus on a piece of work undertaken whilst on placement; I will look to reflect on my ability as a practitioner with focus on my knowledge of theoretical approaches and understanding of legislation, policies, and procedures. For my first direct placement as a social work student I have been part of a local authority Community Care Team (CCT), working with adults over the age of 65 or living with disabilities. Through this placement I have been given the opportunity to work alongside individuals and carers, assessing their needs and implementing service that can best support them.

To comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 and to respect the dignity

Anxiety would arise resulting in Case F wishing to live in a care home with carers present 24 hours a day. A pattern of behaviour was apparent throughout previous assessments and case notes. In addition to this I felt Case F’s niece was worried for her aunt due to her past experience of a supporting her father through a move to a nursing care home, circumstances relating to this differed significantly to Case F’s situation however, reflecting back I feel the anxiety from Case F’s niece was projected on to Case F adding to her own

It was my professional judgement that was required to make a decision. Looking at the discussion by Gibbs & Shlonsky (2004) EBP is a systematic way that includes evidence to answer questions whist considering the service user’s opinion and views as well as professional judgement. At this point I felt nervous and doubt my abilities, I remember wishing for my practice teacher to just tell me what to do, however looking back this was a milestone development for me on placement, I began to feel confident that the work I undertook as part of the assessment fully supported my professional decision and therefore I felt I had made the right decision for Case F to return home. This decision was not accepted by Case F’s niece who disagreed with my decision. She began to question my ability as I was a student and asked if I was qualified to be doing such assessment, I suggested she could come and meet with my team manager and I to discuss the decision