Melissa Crowland

Profile

Biography

Hi, I’m Melissa. I have a rare genetic condition called Alstrom Syndrome, this is where the body doesn’t have a certain protein which affects the development of major organs. In my case I am totally blind, have hearing loss, heart disease, diabetes and a few other health conditions. I graduated from the department in 2018 with a MA in Social Work and am delighted to be back at the department promoting awareness about my condition and best practice for future Social Workers.

I also work for a Mental Health charity as a Crisis Recovery Mentor, so get to work one-to-one with people experiencing suicidal thoughts and self harm which is extremely rewarding. As well as this I’m lucky to mentor Social Work students from another University. In my spare time I run talk services for both teens and young adults with Alstrom Syndrome to reduce feelings of isolation which is very fulfilling. I am also in my second year of Humanistic Therapeutic Counselling which I’m really enjoying.