The valuable contribution social work teams make to the lives of communities in County Durham is to be recognised as part of this year’s World Social Work Day.
World Social Work Day takes place on Tuesday (March 15) and Durham County Council is highlighting the work carried out by social care teams.
This will link up with the theme of this year’s day which is Co-building a New Eco-Social World: Leaving No One Behind. This is also the theme of The People’s Global Summit which is being held online from June 29 to July 2.
The council employs social workers who support adults, children, and young people across a range of specialist areas.
Social care roles are currently available at the council and there are a variety of progression routes for those who join the council’s social work teams.
Sarah Barnes, an integrated social work degree apprentice, started her journey with the council as an apprentice in the housing solutions team seven years ago. Sarah is now one of several council employees who have been accepted onto a social work apprenticeship degree programme.
She said: “I first obtained a full-time permanent post as an occupational therapy administrator.
“This is where I met two inspiring occupational therapists who sparked my interest in health and social care.
“I moved to the adult safeguarding and deprivation of liberty team as a business support officer.
“I worked alongside many social workers and gained knowledge of the role so when a post was advertised within one of our social work teams, I applied and was successful.
“I have been a reviewing officer within the team for over three and a half years and loved every moment of it. I work with lots of people who all have very different individual needs.
“It can be challenging at times, however, I am supported by a fantastic team, which has allowed me to develop both professionally and personally.
“When I was given the opportunity to complete a social work degree, while remaining in my current role, I jumped at the chance. I am looking forward to the next chapter of my working career, with the challenges and the learning which the degree will entail.”
Cllr Paul Sexton, the council’s cabinet member for adults and health services, said: “Social workers make a huge difference to the lives of service users, families, and carers each and every day.
“World Social Work Day provides a great opportunity to stop, reflect and recognise the work of staff who undertake what is a challenging and demanding role.”
For further information about current vacancies within social care go to www.durham.gov.uk/jobsandcareers.