The Interprofessional Practice & Education Week brought together students, staff, and professionals in the fields of social care, early childhood, healthcare, and community support to explore topics within the sector.
The Department of Social Care and Early Childhood at SETU’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford recently hosted the four-day event, from October 21-24,
With 26 speakers from diverse organisations, including the Brothers of Charity, Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre, EPIC, Tusla, Treo, Waterford Women’s Centre, Foroige and the HSE Substance Misuse Services, the week showcased a wide array of perspectives and expertise.
Personal insights
A highlight of the week was the participation of SETU students, who shared personal insights of the care system and engaged with speakers in meaningful discussions. Adrian Sheehy of EPIC, praised the students, remarking, “The students in SETU were the real stars of the whole thing. It was incredibly moving to hear them speak with such positivity and clarity about their own lived experience. They are incredible ambassadors.”
Another memorable session was the screening of films created by staff and participants from Brothers of Charity who attended in large numbers. The films generated important discussions on key issues affecting people with disabilities. The panel engaged the audience further by offering a short lesson in Lámh, creating a joyful and interactive experience for all.
The events across the week provided valuable networking and learning opportunities for students with John Devlin from HSE Substance Misuse Services stating, “It provided an opportunity to share information with potential future social care workers and provide insight into the complexities of addiction treatment.” Fascinating insights from social care related research were also offered by staff within the Department across the week.
EPIC, a national advocacy service for those with care experience travelled to take part in the weeks events.
Commitment to learning
Dr Danielle Douglas, Programme Leader of the BA (Hons) in Social Care Practice, and Jane McGrath, Programme Leader of the BA in Individual, Community, and Family Support extended heartfelt thanks to the speakers and guests, as well as to the dedicated staff in the Department of Social Care and Early Childhood, the Faculty of Arts and Humanities office, and Educational Services for their invaluable support.
They also commended the students for their attention, engagement, and excellent contributions throughout the week, noting how their questions and insights reflected a strong initiative and commitment to learning about interprofessional practice.
The success of Interprofessional Practice & Education Week demonstrates SETU’s commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment that equips students with real-world insights and professional connections, strengthening the future of social care, early childhood and community support in Ireland.
Heather Kiely, Project Manager at Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre, commended the events saying, “Interprofessional Practice and Education Week is a great initiative by SETU.”
Image shows: Staff and participants from Tory Services, Brothers of Charity, who were a wonderful addition to the line up.
