Council gains prestigious social work award    

The Council received Silver in the Supportive Social Work Employer Award category of the Social Worker of the Year Awards, which are judged by an independent panel of social workers, people with lived experience and senior figures from the world of social work.

The judges heard that the Council’s Children’s Services were inspected by Ofsted in March this year and were rated Outstanding, with the inspectors highlighting in relation to the workforce that there was an ambitious and influential leadership team, staff morale was very good and the workforce was listened to, cared for and cared about by senior leaders.

The judges also heard that Ofsted had noted that there was a relentless focus on ongoing recruitment and retention of frontline managers and social workers, resulting in a stable workforce, meaning that children benefit from enduring and trusting relationships with a consistent social worker.

In terms of the Council’s Adult Social Care, the judges were told that an independent review in May last year highlighted a host of workforce-related achievements including an approachable, accessible and responsive leadership, a supportive and person-centred culture and a commitment to professional standards.

Staff were proud of the work they did and everyone asked stated they would recommend working for Adult Social Care to family and friends.           

Further evidence provided to the award judges was the 2023/24 Local Government Association Employers Standards Health Check for Registered Social Workers, which identified Hartlepool as the best performing local authority in the country for the second consecutive year with every outcome rated as ‘Good – Outcome to be Celebrated.’

Sarah Ward (left), the Council’s Principal Social Worker for Adults, and Rebecca Stephenson, the Council’s Assistant Director, Early Intervention, Performance and Commissioning in Children’s Services, pictured with the award at the presentation ceremony in London

Peter Hay CBE, Chair of Trustees for the Social Worker of the Year Awards, said: “The awards celebrate the very best in social work, showcasing the remarkable achievements of those in the profession.

“It’s a real honour to highlight the inspiring accomplishments of both individuals and organisations in this often under-appreciated field.”

Councillor Gary Allen, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community-Based Services Committee, said: “We are delighted to receive this award.

“We know that a committed, well-supported and valued workforce is key to achieving the best possible outcomes for local people.

“We have a highly-experienced and accessible senior leadership team in Adult Social Care and we invest in supporting, developing and retaining our social workers, who in turn are proud to work for the Council and are committed to giving the best possible care to the people they look after.”

Councillor Rachel Creevy, Chair of the Council’s Children’s Services Committee, said: “I'm delighted that our teams have been recognised with this award.

“It’s testament to the leadership and to the commitment of staff throughout the organisation.”