Chichester Students Celebrated As Future Social Workers Mark Global Awareness Day

“Be curious, improve people’s lives and make things better” – that’s the message from the University of Chichester as it marked World Social Work Day with a special event this week.

The annual day highlights the vital role social workers play in supporting communities and driving positive change, both locally across Sussex and beyond.

Final year students studying BA (Hons) Social Work showcased their research to peers, alongside representatives from West Sussex County Council and industry professionals.

Projects covered a wide range of real-world issues, including the link between neurodiversity and the youth justice system, the impact of technology on coercive control, and the benefits of green spaces on young people’s mental health.

One student, Caitlin, explored whether current systems are doing enough to support neurodivergent children – highlighting concerns that some may be unfairly drawn into the justice system.

Staff at the university say the event not only celebrates student achievements but also underlines the growing importance of social work in today’s society.

With students set to graduate later this year, organisers say the future looks bright for the next generation of social workers across Sussex.