Volunteers and Students
At Pathways to Independence, collaboration has always been at the heart of what we do.
Over the years, we have built strong partnerships with universities, hosting student social workers since 2018, and developing a Gold Standard in volunteer engagement through projects such as Connect. These collaborations have been mutually beneficial — offering learning, reflection, and growth both for students and volunteers, and for PTI as an organisation committed to best practice and continuous improvement. Read below for more information
As we develop our services through PTI CIC, we intend to build on this legacy. In 2026, we will be re-opening opportunities for volunteers to join us, and we remain committed to creating meaningful placements where people can contribute, learn, and be part of lasting social impact.
Student Social Worker Programme.
Since 2018, we have hosted a successful Student Social Workers programme.
“Pathways does a wonderful job in supporting young refugees and asylum seekers, safeguarding them and teaching them all the relevant skills they will need once they start living independently”. - Student Social Worker. Contact us to find out more.
Volunteer Connect Model.
Our volunteer programme has been co-designed with young refugees and aims to increase self-confidence and sense of belonging as part of a community by increasing young refugees’ social connections. We have various roles including life skills, mentoring, designers and much more! Contact us and we’ll be in touch.
“Their work ethics, values and approaches very much align with those of social work…working methods such as service user empowerment, person-centred approach, outcome-focused approach, trauma-informed practice, strengths-based approach, partnership work, and reflective practice.”
— Student Social Worker