I am Miguel, a seasoned Social Worker with over two decades of invaluable experience, with the last nine years of my journey unfolding in the United Kingdom. My passion for social work was ignited early on, and I’ve since dedicated myself to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
My academic journey began at the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from 2001 to 2005. During this time, I embraced the role of a Social Work monitor, setting the stage for a fulfilling career. From 2002 to 2005, I served as the coordinator of the Drug Abuse Direct Intervention Team at Projeto Homem, contributing to the rehabilitation of individuals battling addiction.
My commitment to social work led me back to UTAD, where I held various positions on the Coordination Committee of the Social Work degree from 2002 to 2011. These years were instrumental in shaping my professional perspective and expanding my expertise.
In 2005, I embarked on my career as an assistant professor at ISPGaya, progressing to the role of an adjunct professor in 2010. During my time at ISPGaya, I also took on leadership roles, including serving as the Coordinator of the Social Work Degree from September 2007 to December 2009 and subsequently overseeing the Technological Specialization Course in Social Work and Community Development until March 2011.
In 2009, I received the honor of being invited by the Social Security Public Institute to supervise professional and educational teams at two Children’s homes. This experience broadened my horizons and deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals.
Between February 2009 and March 2012, I contributed to the field by serving on the board of the Association for Research and Debate in Social Work, where I oversaw monitoring and training in Social Work. In 2010, I took the helm of its scientific journal, furthering the dissemination of knowledge in the field. In 2011, I was entrusted with the role of President of the Pedagogical Council of the Institute for Human and Social Formation, a testament to my leadership skills and commitment to education.
I also had the privilege of working as a Social Judge in the Court for Youth and Family of Vila Nova de Gaia, where I made crucial decisions impacting the lives of young individuals.
From January 2013 to June 2014, my academic journey took me to the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo, where I contributed to the “Capacitate for Qualification and Innovation in Minho-Lima Social Networks” project as a dedicated researcher.
My association with FEVACA, starting in October 2014, has been a pivotal chapter in my career. I have served as a manager of a supported accommodation project, and in January 2018, I assumed responsibility for implementing and managing all projects in Buckinghamshire. In December 2018, I took on the role of Responsible Individual for the Children’s Homes, a position I held until November 2022. During this time, I also embraced the position of Operational Service Manager, overseeing all residential children’s provisions, including Children’s Homes and Supported Accommodation. This extensive experience has allowed me to impact the lives of countless individuals and families.
My commitment to advancing the field of Social Work extends beyond my professional roles. I have actively participated in various scientific events, both nationally and internationally. I’ve been honored to serve on multiple scientific event committees and have made significant contributions through my extensive publication history:
- Awarded “Best Poster” at the VII National Symposium on Challenges of Professional Social Workers held in Porto in 2013 for my poster on “MinhoLima Social Networks: (Re)Thinking the Local Intervention.”
- Received the First Prize of Scientific Merit in an Alcohology Conference for a presentation on the “Standards of Drinking Alcohol in the Parish of Miranda do Douro” in 2001.
- Published 13 articles in journals with international circulation, all rigorously reviewed by peers.
- Contributed 14 articles to conference proceedings, furthering the knowledge base in the field.
- Delivered 28 oral communications in “peer-reviewed” conferences, sharing insights and expertise.
- Presented 34 oral communications in conferences by invitation, further establishing my presence in the field.
Beyond these accomplishments, I have also played a key role in organizing 19 different scientific events and conferences, facilitating the exchange of ideas and knowledge among professionals and scholars in the field.
I am committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of individuals and communities through my work in Social Work. My journey is a testament to my unwavering dedication to this noble profession, and I look forward to further opportunities to contribute to the well-being of society and promote positive change.
If you wish to connect or discuss potential collaborations, please feel free to reach out. Together, we can make a difference.
Miguel Valerio 