Birmingham mother-of-two graduates from UWTSD after returning to education

Ishrat, 43, will graduate from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s Birmingham campus today after overcoming personal challenges and returning to education to pursue her passion for health and social care.

A British Pakistani mother of two university students, Ishrat was born and raised in Birmingham and chose to study at UWTSD’s Sparkhill campus because of its strong connection to the local community.

“Being in an area I knew well gave me confidence,” she said. “I had heard from friends about the University’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, which reassured me after such a long break from studying.”

Encouraged by her husband and daughters, Ishrat began her journey at UWTSD on the CertHE Skills for the Workplace: Health and Social Care programme before progressing to the BSc Health and Social Care degree. Having now successfully completed both programmes, she is continuing her studies at Level 7 on the MSc Public Health and Social Care in Practice.

Her academic journey highlights the flexible progression routes available at UWTSD and demonstrates how tailored support enables students to build confidence, develop their skills and continue advancing their education.

Drawn to the subject by a desire to create positive change for vulnerable people and improve health and social care outcomes, Ishrat developed a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the sector throughout her studies, including pressures on the NHS, increasing demand for services and the importance of mental health and safeguarding.

One of the highlights of the course was her dissertation, which explored the factors contributing to poor mental health among adolescents in youth offending institutions. Her research examined the impact of childhood trauma, social exclusion and limited access to mental health support.

Alongside developing specialist knowledge, Ishrat strengthened her research, communication and critical thinking skills.

Balancing family life, health issues and academic commitments presented challenges, but she credits the support of university staff with helping her succeed.

“The support from lecturers and staff was invaluable,” she said. “Breaking my work into smaller, manageable tasks helped me stay focused and complete my degree. This course has improved my confidence and shown me that I can overcome challenges and achieve goals that once felt out of reach.”

Now studying for an MSc in Public Health and Social Care in Practice, Ishrat hopes to use her knowledge to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

“If I have helped even one person, then all the studying, sacrifices and challenges will have been worthwhile,” she said.

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071