Victoria Grover is a HNC Social Services graduate and a passionate advocate for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, a cause extremely close to her heart.

43-year-old Victoria has an inspiring College journey to share that led to her current role with the Scottish Recovery Consortium (SRC).

Key to her motivation is her advocacy work for those in recovery from the effects of drugs and alcohol, something which she has lived and family experience of.

Coming to College as an adult returner

After leaving school at the age of 16, Victoria worked part-time whilst raising her son. Her return to full-time education began in 2020, when she joined NESCol to study care.

She said: “I found the courage to apply for the Introduction to Health & Social Care course. I decided to upskill as I felt this would be great for my confidence and I could see if full-time education was something I could achieve.”

Victoria thrived at College, working her way through social care courses. In 2022, she moved from Aberdeen to Macduff and opted to study SCQF Level 6 course at Fraserburgh Campus. Unfortunately, this year proved to be exceptionally challenging.

Support was available during difficult times

Victoria had to juggle her studies with caring for her brother until he sadly passed away in May 2023. In an incredible demonstration of resilience, she managed to sit her exams whilst going through the grieving process.

She said: “NESCol was great with me during this time. I was given a room to myself for the exams which really helped. The College also arranged bereavement counselling for me, without which I may have dropped out.”

Against all odds, she successfully met the requirements and was accepted onto the HNC Social Services course. Alongside studying for her HNC, Victoria also had to cope with the emotional strain of the investigation into her brother’s death.

Though she faced significant hardships herself, Victoria remained determined to help others. She managed to undertake training, volunteer with both Aberdeen in Recovery (AIR) and Alcohol & Drugs Action (ADA), and work for ADA as part of her HNC placement.

Victoria’s incredible efforts did not go unnoticed, and she was recognised twice at NESCol’s annual Go Celebrate! Student Awards.

She said: “One of my College highlights was winning the Go Make a Difference! Award in 2022 for my volunteering work setting up support groups in Aberdeenshire. I was also Highly Commended in 2024 for my achievements. Being recognised for my resilience and strength was overwhelming, and having the lecturers believe in and encourage me was outstanding.

“Another highlight was working with NESCol’s Director of Marketing and Communications and getting featured as a guest columnist in the Press & Journal in 2022. I wrote about how the cost of living crisis was impacting students, and it was validating to have my opinion heard.”

A new career in social work

Victoria’s four years of hard work and sheer perseverance paid off. She secured a full-time job with the SRC which she started straight after leaving College in July. Victoria continues to make a difference to others in her role as a National Localities MIST Q Officer.

After the 16-month-long investigation, Victoria and her family have recently received a full apology for her brother’s death. Recommendations have also been made to avoid any further unnecessary deaths and ensure vulnerable adults receive the care they need.

Victoria and her guests celebrated her outstanding achievements at NESCol’s graduation on 1 October at the Music Hall.

Victoria’s College experience

Looking back on her time at NESCol, she said: “I would highly recommend NESCol to anyone thinking about returning to education. As a mature student, I have been supported in many ways and had a great College experience, even with the challenges I’ve faced.

“The Students’ Association was an important part of my journey – they were always there if I had anything to discuss and made me feel part of the community.

“For anyone thinking about applying for social care or social services, I say go for it! I have been mentored and my skills and confidence have grown in many ways. I am grateful I chose NESCol.”