"I looked forward to every meeting"

I was provided with two years of supervision as a result of a conviction. I use the word ‘provided’ intentionally because from the first date until the last I felt entirely supported and cared about by my two social workers. I had no idea what to expect but wanted to approach the process positively and with good grace.

I have undertaken several occasions of counselling for PTSD matters but none came close to the listening ear and advice I received from my social workers. I looked forward to every meeting and always came away in a positive frame of mind and filled with hope for the future, which had looked very bleak prior to my supervision. If the criminal justice system as a whole mirrored the professionalism, kindness, and honesty I experienced here, I believe that society would be a safer, more inclusive and welcoming place.

I haven’t named my social workers as I’m unsure of how appropriate that might be in this context. However, in more than 30 years of public service and a following six years as a resident of East Kilbride I count my two social workers as two of the finest women I have ever encountered. I cannot praise them highly enough but give thanks that my life was bettered by their inclusion.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.