Helen McCann

I teach on our Health and Social Care and Access to Health Professions courses, with specific interest and expertise in health, social care, psychology, mental health and holistic medicine. 

My professional background includes health and social care management and work as a holistic therapy practitioner. Before becoming a lecturer, I held leadership roles in housing, social care and service management, delivering supported housing, homelessness and care services. These experiences allow me to link classroom theory to the realities of working with vulnerable people. I use practical scenarios, case studies and current sector issues to show how policy, legislation and professional practice operate in real settings. Alongside this, I’m working towards a master’s degree in Psychology which keeps me up-to-date with research and industry developments - and of course I bring these insights into my teaching. 

What inspires me most within our industry is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives, particularly those who are most vulnerable. Having worked in housing and care services, I’ve seen firsthand how effective support and compassion can transform outcomes for people and families. I find it especially rewarding to help students build the skills and confidence needed to take on these roles themselves and to see them go on to secure jobs where they can positively impact others.

A common misconception about health and social care is that it is simply about being caring. While compassion is essential, the field also demands strong professional knowledge, critical thinking and a sound understanding of legislation, safeguarding and ethical practice. 

My advice to students starting at UCB is to take notes, ask questions, and remember that you will get out of your learning journey as much as you put in.