A South Eastern Trust Social Work Assistant has started a degree in social work with the Open University, continuing his employment with the Trust while studying.

Gabriel Carlin, 55, has worked as a Social Work Assistant for the past three years, based at Portaferry Surgery. He began the degree after completing an introductory module, K102, which he passed.

Carlin said his decision to pursue the qualification followed working with social workers from Children's Services and Adult Services. He said seeing their work aligned him with the path he wanted to be on.

As part of his current role, Carlin delivers groups including Guitar and Ukulele Groups, Dementia and Carers Groups, Walking Groups and Weight Management Programmes. He described community development as a big part of his job, focused on getting people out of their homes for social, emotional and physical wellbeing.

Carlin received the South Eastern Trust Chairman's Award in recognition of his contribution. His manager, Senior Social Work Practitioner Andrea McGlennon, said his enthusiasm and commitment were evident from the moment he joined the team and that the award was well deserved.

Carlin said his childhood experience with school was not great and he did not always feel as capable as other children, but as an adult he began gaining qualifications and passing them. He said that gave him confidence to pursue the degree.

He said the Open University allows him to work and study at the same time, and his managers have allowed time and flexibility. The intention is to become a Social Worker within the South Eastern Trust in three years' time.

Carlin said he would encourage anybody to take on a challenge like this, adding that age is just a number. He said at 21 he would not have had the life skills or depth of understanding he has now.

McGlennon said Carlin is enthusiastic, motivated and driven, and delivers a good service to the local community every day. She said the team is committed to supporting him through the next couple of years.