Rachel Hubbard

Rachel Hubbard is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, and serves as Programme Leader for social work continuing professional development (CPD) programs. She leads modules on Best Interests Assessment, Social Work Practice with Adults, and Safeguarding at Risk Individuals. Her work integrates adult social care law, human rights, mental capacity, and anti-oppressive practices, particularly focusing on marginalized communities and LGBTQ+ experiences.

• Educational qualifications include DSW (Doctorate in Social Work), MA (Master of Arts), BA (Hons) in Social Work, DipSW (Diploma in Social Work), PQSW (Post-Qualifying Specialist Award in Social Work), PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), and Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).
• Research emphasizes creative qualitative methods, ethical social work practice through mental health and human rights law, and LGBTQ+ identity exploration.

Her expertise spans adult social care, Best Interests Assessor (BIA) training, mental health, and legal frameworks like deprivation of liberty safeguards. She is registered with Social Work England as both a social worker and BIA.

• Key teaching areas: Mental Capacity Act, adult safeguarding, human rights, anti-oppressive practice, and LGBTQ+ social work.
• Professional roles: Practice Educator, DoLS Coordinator, and UWE Bristol faculty member.