Meet two BCWA student volunteers

May 31, 2023

Our incredible team of volunteers work very closely with us on a day to day basis to ensure that we are delivering the support to those in the community that…

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Our incredible team of volunteers work very closely with us on a day to day basis to ensure that we are delivering the support to those in the community that need it most. Without them, we simply would not be able to carry on making the difference we do today.

We asked two of our student volunteers, Zaiera and Abi, to give you an insight into how they are helping to transform the lives of those suffering domestic abuse…

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Tell us a little bit about yourself

“My name is Zaiera, but many people call me Zai for short. I am currently studying BA Social Work and I am in my second year. I enjoy reading, watching Netflix, Disney etc., spending time with friends and family, going to the gym and practicing yoga, meditation, journaling and attending sound baths.”

“My name is Modupe Bodunde, preferably called Abi. I am caring, passionate about whatever I am doing and love to cook and bake. I am a student of University of Greenwich, studying BA Social Work, 2^nd year.”

Why did you start volunteering with BCWA?

“I am with BCWA on my first university placement. I have always had an interest in working with domestic abuse and directly with women and children who experience this.” – Zaiera

“I started volunteering with BCWA in November 2022 as student on placement, learning about domestic violence and the role of a social worker. I am learning how to link theory with practice (i.e. the knowledge I have acquired in the classroom).” – Abi

What is a typical day as a BCWA student volunteer?

“During my time at BCWA I have assisted with the support line, attended workshops, helped with setting up utility accounts for those who have moved out of refuge, I also do key work sessions with clients to discuss what is going well for them and encourage them and empower them in any way that I can. I have also worked alongside staff on IRIS whereby I shadowed training meetings for non-clinical staff in a GP setting on how to spot domestic abuse and what they can do about it.” – Zaiera

“Working in BCWA can be so interesting. I normally sign in at 9:30am, check my emails quickly and respond to anything urgent. I will also log on the business support line everyday where I assist incoming call from domestic violence victims who either need urgent intervention, high risk or emotional/practical support. I also work with different teams, such as the BAME Project (support group for Minority communities) and the One-stop-shop (working with external solicitors).”– Abi

What have you learnt so far during your time spent with BCWA?

“I have been able to develop my communication skills. I have learnt different processes that the women go through, especially those who are asylum seekers. I have learnt about the therapeutic approach with children. I have been able to develop my understanding of domestic abuse, how it affects women and children and gain an insight into the domestic abuse law.” – Zaiera

“Even though I only started in November, I have learnt a lot, particularly in relation to empathy. I have been able to treat everyone I come into contact with as individuals using BCWA’s person-centred approach. Domestic violence is a generic term but everybody has their own individual experiences.” – Abi

What are your aspirations for the future?

“I intend to be a qualified social worker that is also a trained IDSVA and work in Child Protection.” – Zaiera

“My future goal is to be a qualified social worker. All I am learning at BCWA and everything I will learn as I move up the ladder will definitely help me to be a knowledgeable social worker.” – Abi

Is there anything else that you’d like to share?

“I am happy about the relationships that I have been able to build, not only with staff, but also with the women at the refuge. The memories that I have with these women will always hold a special place in my heart.” – Zaiera

“I have some memorable times but getting feedback from clients such as “Thank you so much, you don’t know how grateful I am” help me to know that I am doing something right.” – Abi

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We value all of our volunteers that give the local community their time and support to empower anyone suffering domestic abuse to make informed choices about their future. You can become a part of that change too by volunteering with us today. Simply email your CV and cover letter to volunteering@bcwa.org.uk.

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