LIGHTHOUSE

L Y N   D O R N E Y

From a young age I expressed an interest in studying social work as I have always had an interest in people and human rights.  I knew I wanted a career where I could work directly with people and as a young school leaver had an idealistic view of being able to change the world!  After school, I completed a degree in Social Science and went travelling with the intention of studying social work on my return.   Living, working and travelling in New Zealand and Australia increased my interest in being a social worker and this life experience was vital when I completed the Masters in Social Work in UCC (Cork, Ireland).

Throughout my career, I worked with children and families in the areas of homelessness, sexual health, separated children seeking asylum and alternative care.  The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and cooperation was evident in all areas of work and at the core of my practice is the importance of relationships.  I have a strong interest in policy and the application of policies in practice.  I moved to Higher Education in recent years and am enjoying bringing my practice experience into the classroom working with student social workers as they embark on their journey and hearing their stories of what brought them to social work.

I chose this Lighthouse because …

I was reading a book about the Outer Banks and my brother lived in North Carolina at the time and bought me this lighthouse when he was there.  The timing of the gift was special as it was following a family bereavement and until I reflected on the object for this project, I hadn’t realised how attached I have become to this little lighthouse.  It illustrated how there is always guidance on our journey through life, even in the darker times as well as the importance of staying connected.

I kept it on my desk in practice for years.  I have more recently moved it to my home office desk.  

So, I love what it symbolises – strength, hope, guidance and stability.  For those at sea, the lighthouse guides and helps them navigate on their journey. 

Social workers guide people during times in their lives when they need support in a variety of settings. However, listening to difficult situations on a regular basic can take its toll on practitioners, add in system changes and resource issues and burnout is a reality. This lighthouse represents the resilience and strength of practitioners. 

Over the years in social work, there have been many changes and this lighthouse illustrates to me how some things remain stable despite the changes or storms around them.  Social worker as a profession continues to provide support and offer guidance and hope for people despite the many changes.   My values, beliefs and strive for social justice and human rights  and a  basic respect for others are at the core of my work and inspire me to continue on my journey of social work.