Twelve outstanding social workers, organisations and social work teams from across the country have been recognised for their exemplary work over the past year at the virtual Social Worker of the Year ceremony. Hosted by the BBC journalist and presenter, Ashley John-Baptiste, who has personal experience of the care system.

The awards provided a much-needed chance to look back and celebrate some of the amazing work the social work profession has been able to deliver during an extremely challenging time.

Children’s Social Worker of the Year

It’s always inspiring to hear about how practitioners have gone above and beyond to support vulnerable young people , and this year was no exception. As the sponsor of the Children’s Social Worker of the Year category, we’re proud to extend our congratulations to this year’s Gold Award winner, Alexandra Capitani, Coventry City Council, and to Marissa Langley, Surrey County Council, who took home the Silver award. 

Yorkshire & the Humber Social Workers Recognised

We were also delighted to see some practitioners from our region pick up awards too! Colleagues from across Yorkshire & the Humber tuned into the ceremony to watch as both of the region’s nominees won an award. With so many entries from across England, securing a nomination is an achievement to be proud of in itself, so it’s brilliant to have some representation on the night.

Congratulations to Bradford’s Preparation for Adulthood service, who received the Silver award reflection of their amazing work this year. We’re also very proud of Anna O’Brien, who took home the Gold award for Newly Qualified Social Worker of the Year. During the pandemic, Anna organised a community response to support families who were isolating, delivering food parcels and activity packs to families living in poverty.

After a great evening with so many inspirational social work stories, we’re already looking forward to next year’s awards!