UEA celebrates 50 years of social work success
By: Communications
A mother of four, who overcame personal challenges during her undergraduate studies as a mature student, is now helping families across Norfolk – as the University of East Anglia’s (UEA) School of Social Work celebrates half a century of success.
This September marks 50 years since social work began at UEA, with a range of events planned to celebrate five decades of success in education, supporting communities, and impactful research to help shape social work policy and practice.
The anniversary falls in the same month that UEA was recognised among the UK’s best for Social Work, ranking sixth nationally in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027, reinforcing the School’s long-standing reputation for excellence in social work education.
“I felt ready and capable of making a real difference”
For Mercy Akomah, 42, this anniversary offers a chance to reflect on how far her own journey has taken her, having initially embarked on her studies as a BA (Hons) Social Work mature student in 2018, after being out of education for more than a decade.
She said: “As a mature student and single mum with four young children, I needed a university that felt supportive rather than intimidating, and UEA delivered exactly that.
“I arrived feeling pretty rusty and unsure of myself, but the support I received was nothing short of amazing. The lecturers and my personal adviser were incredibly down-to-earth and genuinely invested in my success.”
Despite facing significant personal challenges before and during her time at university, Mercy graduated from UEA in 2021 and is now working as a Children with Disabilities Social Worker in the region.
Alongside working full-time, Mercy has continued her academic journey through a part-time MA in Social Work, as well as a research project on short breaks for children with disabilities that has since inspired her plans for a PhD.
Her journey reflects the lasting impact of UEA's social work programme, which aims to equip students with the skills, confidence and resilience to support some of the most vulnerable people in society.
“Graduating wasn't just about getting a degree, it symbolised reclaiming my future and proving to myself, and my children, that we could create a better life. I left UEA feeling like I wasn't just 'qualified' on paper; I felt ready and capable of making a real difference.
“Every day in my role as a social worker feels meaningful. I support families navigating complex systems, advocate for children's rights and access to services, and help create moments of joy and short breaks that make a real difference. The work is challenging, but emotionally rich, and incredibly rewarding. I can't imagine doing anything else.
“Even now, years later, I still draw on what I learned at university. The values of anti-oppressive practice, trauma-informed care, and person-centred support guide how I work with children with disabilities and their families.
“UEA didn't just give me a degree, it gave me back confidence, community, and the foundation to build the career I'd dreamed of. I’m so grateful for that chapter.”
50 years of social work excellence
The School of Social Work’s golden anniversary will be marked with a programme of events bringing together alumni, students, academics and social work professionals.
This includes the Social Work Annual Lecture on Thursday 26 November, and a one-day anniversary conference in spring 2027.
These events will provide an opportunity to reflect on the School’s contribution over the past 50 years, celebrate the achievements of its graduates and explore the future of social work.
Prof Christine Cocker, Head of the School of Social Work, said: “This anniversary is a chance to pause and celebrate not only the School itself, but the staff and students who have passed through it.
“This includes students such as Mercy, who have gone on to support children, families and adults through some of the most difficult periods of their lives. I am also very proud of the academics who work in the School, whose research has influenced social work practice regionally, nationally and internationally.
“Their stories reflect the values that have defined our School of Social Work for 50 years and will continue to inspire future generations in the years ahead.”
To find out more about the anniversary programme, or attend an event, please contact social.work@uea.ac.uk.
Five decades of research with real-world impact
The School of Social Work has developed a strong research profile since its beginning, with academics exploring some of the most complex issues facing children, families and communities.
This includes research into adoption, transforming the lives of children in state care, leading the way in child protection, and strengthening support for foster carers through innovative therapeutic fostering approaches.
Academics also contribute their expertise to national conversations and policy about social care and child and family services, helping to improve outcomes for children and families, strengthen professional practice and shape the future of care provision.
Learn more about Social Work at UEA
Thinking about studying at UEA?
Discover our award-winning campus, meet current students and staff, and find out what life at UEA is really like at one of our upcoming Undergraduate Open Days:
Saturday 24 October 2026
Saturday 28 November 2026
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