THE Western Trust today celebrated the outstanding contributions made by Social Work staff at an awards ceremony held in the Guildhall in Derry.
The awards ceremony celebrated the innovation and commitment of Social Workers across the Western Trust and their unique role in which they seek to enhance the social wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our community.
The awards ceremony recognised and showcased the work of Social Workers, and highlighted the positive impact of the profession on individuals, families and communities.
Keynote Speaker and Western Trust Chief Executive, Elaine Way, CBE commented on today’s event: “It was a privilege to stand here today as your Chief Executive to applaud our exemplary Social Workers. Social Work makes a really valuable contribution to our society, providing help to people in a wide range of circumstances. It is a difficult and challenging role and often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves”.
“The Social Work Awards are a celebration and recognition of the important and excellent work being done, both for and with service users, by Social Workers and Social Work Teams across the Western Trust.”
Social work staff were honoured by individual and team awards across various categories including; Children’s Services, Adult Services, Partnership, Learning and Development and Newly Qualified.
The final award of the day was the prestigious Joan Ross Memorial Award for Outstanding Contribution to Social Work.
Katie Lavery, Service Manager Residential Care was the proud winner of this accolade for her years of work and dedication to the social work profession.
Closing today’s event, Kieran Downey, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services and Executive Director of Social Work for the Western Trust said:
“Social Workers play an important role within our communities but much of this goes unnoticed.
“They help people get back on their feet, help to protect our children, and help to foster stronger families and communities across the Western Trust every day.
“As professionals they never look for thanks. The awards provide us with the opportunity to honour these inspirational and deserving professionals and teams.”
Mr Downey continued: “The calibre of the finalists and winners today was most impressive, demonstrating the innovative practice undertaken by our Social Workers across all disciplines.
“I believe it is very important that we take time out to acknowledge the members of our profession and that we honour the role they undertake, on society’s behalf, to enhance the lives of those who are most vulnerable”.
