Durham County Council has been recognised for its social work at a national awards.
The local authority claimed a gold and silver at the Social Worker of the Year Awards, which celebrate individual excellence and outstanding practice among social workers.
The council won a gold award for Supportive Social Work Employer of the Year.
This recognises organisations delivering excellent practice as an employer while also inspiring employees to achieve their best.
Judges commented on the council’s success in terms of staff training, including its innovative Leadership Academy and academy for newly qualified social workers.
They also praised the council’s commitment to developing an open and supportive culture, staff wellbeing and peer support.
Meanwhile, a silver award for Social Worker of the Year was given to one of the council’s social work consultants, Nathan Head, who has been described as determined and inspirational.
Having started his career with the authority six years ago as a student social worker, Nathan has been recognised for his hugely positive impact on children and young people across County Durham.
Nathan said: “It’s an honour to be recognised at these awards. Being a social worker is a challenging but hugely rewarding role.
“To me, this award reflects the hard work and dedication that all our social workers demonstrate on a daily basis, alongside the care teams who help us to support our children and young people.”
Cllr Ted Henderson, cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “I would like to congratulate Nathan and all our social workers for these achievements.
“They work incredibly hard to make a difference to children and young people across County Durham and it is wonderful to see them recognised for this work on a national level.
“Achieving these successes following the challenges of the pandemic further highlights how committed and resilient our workforce is.
“We are incredibly grateful for all our staff do to improve the outcomes for children, young people and their families. These awards are richly deserved.”