At the University of East London (UEL), social work students are offered more than just classroom-based learning. As part of their journey towards becoming compassionate, capable social work practitioners, first-year students engage in a unique experience – the Communication Café.
Over the last three years, this practical activity has been a cornerstone of their communication skills training. By working directly with individuals who have lived experience of learning disabilities, students not only develop essential skills but also learn the true art of advocacy.

The Social Work Capabilities Framework emphasises the importance of communication as a core professional capability, particularly in understanding the diverse needs of individuals from various backgrounds. The Communication Café exemplifies this, offering students the chance to engage meaningfully with people whose communication styles may differ from their own.
Social work is also about building relationships and creating spaces where everyone feels heard, understood, and valued. Here at UEL we benefit from a body of students from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and students already learn a lot from each other, as the ability to communicate effectively across those differences is crucial. The Communication Café plays a vital role in nurturing these skills by providing a supportive environment for students to practise real-world communication techniques. Working with individuals with learning disabilities teaches them the importance of active listening, non-verbal cues, and adaptable communication strategies.

This experience goes beyond just learning the mechanics of communication, it helps to foster empathy, a deeper understanding of lived experiences, and the recognition of people’s strengths. As one of our guests, Jas, a self-advocate from a local residential setting has pointed out, “No one is normal, everyone is unique. Uniquely special. Everyone has a disability in a way, whether you admit it or not.” This really resonate with us as it captures the essence of social work so well, appreciating the individual beyond their challenges and advocating for their rights and inclusion.

Our Communication Café is a testament to UEL’s commitment to practice-based learning. As students sit down with individuals from a local residential setting, sharing their stories over tea and biscuits, they learn how to navigate conversations, interpret non-verbal cues, and build trust. These skills are crucial for social workers, as community engagement is a core requirement for effective practice.
Coming here (UEL), and meeting people like you is an encouragement for us. Going to meet new people is nervous for me.
Jas – self-advocate, Airthrie Homes resident.
This is our fourth week, we are still getting to know one another, we have been introduced to the advocacy pathway, and you coming here today has been an eye opener for me – to the good times, the challenging times, the fun times. I am really glad you’re here today and I hope I get to come to your home and work with you all.
UEL Social Work student
It was really nice to meet all of you and hear about your experiences, I learnt a lot about each of you, thank you for being so motivational
UEL Social Work student
I’ve had a really great time getting to know everyone, I personally learned a lot from Jas and Joyce, they were very insightful and helpful in giving us an opportunity to see what it’s like on a very personal level, I am really grateful for that
UEL Social Work student
First of all, I would like to say thank you for coming, it’s been delightful. Personally, I have learned a lot of new things and learned a lot of new skills in particular – non-verbal skills, listening to you and the way you presented yourselves; eye contact was one of the great skills I learnt from you. I will definitely be taking what I have learned to my placement, thank you
UEL Social Work student
The Communication Café 2024 is more than a learning activity — it’s an opportunity for future social workers to connect, learn, and grow in empathy and understanding.
Everyone has a story to share!
