Former Kidderminster College Student Honoured for Award-Winning Mental Health Research

A former student has credited Kidderminster College with giving her the confidence and skills to succeed at university after receiving a prestigious award for her mental health research.

Charmaine Stone, 33, has completed her Social Work degree at the University of Worcester and was awarded the Andy Dixon Smith Award for Mental Health. 

Before attending the University of Worcester, Charmaine studied an Access to Higher Education course at Kidderminster College.  

Reflecting on the support she received at college, she said: “Kidderminster College gave me the knowledge, confidence, and study skills I needed to succeed at university. It helped me develop my academic writing, research and critical thinking, which became essential through my degree.” 

She added: “The encouragement and support I received during the course there gave me the confidence to progress into higher education, and it laid the foundations that ultimately helped me achieve this award.”  

The award recognises Charmaine’s dissertation, which explored how social workers can better support autistic adults who are at risk of detention under the Mental Health Act.

“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to receive this award,” she said. “It means a great deal that my work has been recognised, especially as the topic is something I deeply care about.” 

“Receiving this award has given me confidence as I begin my career as a newly qualified social worker,” added Charmaine, who has already secured a position and is looking forward to starting her career as a social worker.  

“My family and friends were incredibly proud when they found out I’d received the award. They have supported me throughout my degree, encouraging me through the challenges and celebrating the milestones along the way. Sharing this achievement with them made it even more special.” 

Charmaine has graduated from the institution that has been named the Daily Mail University of the Year for Graduate Jobs 2027, and is the UK’s leading multi-subject university for sustained graduate employment, further study or both one year after graduation. She received her award and degree during a week of graduation ceremonies held at Worcester Cathedral.

Professor Sally Moyle, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Worcester, said:

“Winning an award like this is a great way for students to demonstrate to future employers the effort and commitment they have invested in their university experience. They can look back with pride on their outstanding achievements.” 

 For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk