LIT student wins National Social Care Ireland Student Award 2019

Ennis woman and LIT student, Bridget McDonagh has won the National Social Care Ireland Student Award 2019 for her ground-breaking work with prisoners’ families in Clare. Bridget beat off strong competition from students all over Ireland to be awarded the accolade in March at the Social Care Ireland Annual Conference and Gala Dinner.

The aim of the Social Care Ireland Student Award is to recognise and reward the outstanding contribution and excellent performance of Social Care students nationally. One award is presented every year for excellence and/or outstanding demonstration of developing professional practice skills, reflective practice and innovation and imagination.

While winning her award was part of Bridget’s studies at LIT Ennis Campus, its effect on the community went far beyond her course work and the award. A 3^rd year BA in Social Care Work student, Bridget was nominated for the award after she secured funding for a newly developed organisation which supports the families and relatives of prisoners.

The newly funded project was specifically targeted at ethnic minority inclusion and developing supports and access for the travelling community affected by imprisonment. Bridget initially began her studies at LIT by completing a Level 6 Special Purpose award in Health Advocacy and Community Development, a joint initiative between LIT, Ennis CDP and the HSE. On receipt of her Certificate, she then progressed to the degree in Social Care Work at LIT.  Everyone at LIT is very proud of Bridget and her achievements.