Tomorrow's Social Worker of the Year Awards will celebrate the dedication and commitment of social workers across the UK.

The event, being held on the 8th of November in London, highlights the outstanding contributions that social workers make to the communities they work in.

London is well represented this year, with multiple councils and individuals nominated for their exceptional efforts in supporting children and families, with some nominations also within adults’ services. Here’s a look at some of the finalists representing London at the event.

Bexley

Bexley's Staying Together Team has been recognised for the second consecutive year as a finalist in the Team of the Year category. Roni Roach, Service Manager, expressed her pride:

"As the service leader for Staying Together, I am incredibly proud that the team have been finalists two consecutive years now! The team work exceptionally hard to ensure our most vulnerable children and families receive the best support through various ways, the team are passionate, enthusiastic and committed and I am looking forward to celebrating them at the upcoming awards night."

Roni Roach, Bexley

Hammersmith & Fulham

Hammersmith & Fulham Council has nominations across three categories, including The Supportive Social Work Employer Award, a testament to their focus on workforce development and supporting social workers to thrive.

Danielle Jeenah has been instrumental in launching Hammersmith & Fulham’s Care Leavers Hub, and has been nominated for Team Leader of the Year.

Florence "Cherry" Ricketts has made a lasting impact on homelessness support in the borough, benefiting a huge number of young people; Cherry has been nominated as Children’s Social Worker of the Year for her efforts.

“Our workforce is our biggest asset and it's wonderful to see that our efforts are validated by a panel of independent judges as well. We pride ourselves on comprehensive workforce development and support packages that help our social workers feel motivated, valued and confident to do their jobs.”

Hammersmith & Fulham

Hammersmith & Fulham Social Workers

Hounslow

Hounslow Council has achieved several nominations this year. Jonas Kurkalang, a specialist in adoption who takes huge pride in supporting children to find their 'forever families', has been nominated for Children’s Social Worker of the Year.

Andy O’Sullivan is up for Team Leader of the Year (Children’s Services). Andy is a Team Manager in the borough's Adolescent team and is credited with enacting a long-term plan including a recruitment strategy and all-round approach that builds trust and long-term relationships with children and their families.

Also picture below is Aaron Evans, a finalist for Newly Qualified Adult Social Worker of the Year. Hounslow Council leader, Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, praised the nominees:

“It’s testament to our team of social workers that they have achieved multiple nominations. All three have shown the compassion, dedication, and expertise needed to excel in these important roles.”

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, Hounslow

Hounslow social workers nominated for social worker of the year awards

Sutton

Michael Radley, the Principal Social Worker and Therapeutic Hub Manager at Sutton Council, has been nominated for Team Leader of the Year

"I am beyond thrilled to be announced as a finalist for 'Team Leader of the Year, Children's Services' at the Social Worker of the Year Awards! I could not be more grateful to all those who contributed to the nomination and for them holding me with such warm regard...

When people are already capable experts in what they do it is very humbling when they seek you out for advice, guidance, and safety, and so I always seek to treat that with the respect it deserves...

I celebrate those I lead and I am chuffed to bits that they have chosen to celebrate me via these awards. Thank you, wish me luck, and let's keep championing the fantastic role that social care has in making life better for babies, children, young people and families"

Michael Radley, Sutton

Wandsworth

Wandsworth Council has been nominated for the Supportive Social Work Employer award, highlighting their efforts in promoting employee well-being, professional development, and creating a positive work culture. Louise Jones, Wandsworth's Assistant Director Practice Standards & Principal Social Worker, is proud to see the borough nominated:

"We are delighted to be named a finalist for the Social Worker of the Year Awards in the Supportive Social Work Employer category. Our dedicated workforce is our greatest strength, enabling us to provide exceptional support to the children and families we serve in Wandsworth. We have worked diligently to create an environment where social workers can excel in their roles, ensuring families receive the right support at the right time.

With multi-disciplinary professionals integrated into our teams and a strong emphasis on training in systemic and relational practice, as well as high-quality supervision, we are committed to delivering the highest standard of care. We are deeply proud of the positive feedback from our workforce and the heartfelt responses from children, young people, and their families, affirming the meaningful difference we are making in their lives."

Louise Jones, Wandsworth

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