Episode Details

In this episode, we speak with Maddy McCormack, a social worker early in her career, about the realities of stepping into practice with children and families.

Maddy reflects on her route into the role, what day-to-day social work actually looks like, and what she’s had to learn beyond training to be effective in her first year. We explore how she builds relationships with young people and their families, especially in contexts of risk, conflict, and uncertainty.

She speaks candidly about the emotional demands of the work — including doubt, moral distress, and the cases that stay with you — and how this can shape thinking and practice under pressure.

We also discuss what helps her stay relational when things are tough, what sustains her in the role, and the moments that remind her why the work matters.

An honest conversation about learning on the job, staying human, and the emotional weight of social work.

Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/

Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme

Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/

Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/