By Charlotte Webster–
Young people and learning services of West Sussex County Council’s Children won a national award in recognition of the support given to social workers.
They were awarded silver in the ‘Supportive Social Work Employer’ category at the recent Social Worker of the Year Awards which took place last week in Manchester. It was in relation to the county council’s work in recruiting and supporting qualified social workers to help children, young people and families in West Sussex.
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Gold and silver awards were handed out across 18 categories covering education, research, leadership and the promotion of social justice.
The lifetime achievement gold award went to Maria Moore, a senior social worker and practise educator at Liverpool council reputed for making a notable difference in the lives of children and families.
It acknowledged the successful overseas recruitment programme led by the Children, Young People and Learning Service, which has reduced its permanent vacancy rate from 15% to 4% in just three years. This resulted in the decreased use of agency staff by 80% and led to lower caseloads, improved stability and better outcomes for children and families.
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Councillor Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “I am absolutely delighted that West Sussex County Council has been recognised with a silver award for being a Supportive Social Work Employer.
“It’s a great achievement for the service, which has now received five national awards in the past four years.
“We are proud to foster a culture where social workers feel valued, empowered and supported to deliver outstanding care. This award reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and to putting children first in everything we do.”
The Social Worker of the Awards celebrate the very best in social work and shine a light on those who go above and beyond to transform lives.
The county council’s Adult Services team was also shortlisted in the same category of ‘Supportive Social Work Employer’. The nomination was in recognition of the service’s comprehensive induction programme, buddy system, and ongoing professional development that has ensured qualified social workers and occupational therapists recruited from other countries feel valued, supported, and able to thrive in their new roles.
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