West Sussex County Council Teams Shortlisted for National Social Work Awards

Two West Sussex County Council services have been named as finalists in this year’s Social Worker of the Year Awards, recognising their commitment to supporting local people.

The council’s Adults’ Services team and the Children, Young People and Learning Service have both been shortlisted for the Supportive Social Work Employer Award.

The Adults’ Services team has been praised for its successful international recruitment programme, which has welcomed social workers and occupational therapists from across the globe.

Alongside boosting the workforce, the initiative has enriched cultural diversity and improved the quality of care for residents. New recruits benefit from a detailed induction programme, a buddy system, and ongoing development opportunities.

Cllr Amanda Jupp, Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said:

“Our Adults’ Services team have worked hard to build a positive and inclusive community, ensuring colleagues from around the world feel at home here in West Sussex.

"Being shortlisted for this award is fitting recognition of their hard work, compassion and commitment.”

Meanwhile, the Children, Young People and Learning Service has reduced permanent vacancies from 15% to just 4% in three years, while cutting agency staff use by 80%.

This has created greater stability, lower caseloads and better outcomes for children and families.

Cllr Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said:

“The overseas recruitment programme has been transformative.

"It’s strengthened our workforce and ensured children and families most in need benefit from consistent, high-quality support.”

The winners of the Social Worker of the Year Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Manchester on Friday 17 October.

For more details and the full list of finalists, visit socialworkawards.com.