Tameside Apprentice Social Worker shortlisted for top national award

A Tameside Council Adult Social Work Apprentice has been shortlisted for a prestigious award in recognition of their extraordinary practice.  

Charlotte Higgins has been selected as a finalist for Student Social Worker of the Year in the Social Worker of the Year Awards 2023. Those who have supported Charlotte throughout her apprenticeship have praised her for her passion and her ability to remain calm and professional in such a fast paced and complex role.

The passion and commitment for her role particularly shines through in feedback from residents she has supported during her apprenticeship. One person who provided feedback stated that she was with him from day one when his wife was unexpectedly given a short amount of time to live. Charlotte supported them to the best of her ability through this very difficult time. When his wife sadly passed away, she continued to support him with tenancy problems and arrangements for carers to support him.

Cllr John Taylor, Executive Member for Adult Social Care said: ‘’We are extremely proud of Charlotte’s commitment, passion, and drive throughout her apprenticeship with us. She truly deserves the recognition for the positive impact she has made on our residents’ lives.

‘’As she has demonstrated, Social Work is rewarding carer where you really can make a difference. Well done and good luck to Charlotte.’’

Charlotte is one of six finalists in the Student Social Worker of the Year category and will find out if she has won at a special awards ceremony in London on Friday 3 November.

Supported by Bradford Social Work Teaching Partnership, Student Social Worker of the Year, is for university students studying social work who are showing outstanding potential in their studies; surpassing expectations and have a thorough understanding of social work theory and practice.

Peter Hay CBE, Chair of the Social Work Awards, said: “This year we received the most entries ever which goes to show organisations and individuals are keen to shine a light on the inspirational achievements of an often-overlooked profession. We would like to thank all those who took the time to nominate a friend, colleague, or team for an award this year. To our finalists, we’d like to say congratulations! Being nominated for a national award, whilst supporting others during very challenging times, is a remarkable achievement of which you should be very proud.”

For more information about the awards, please visit www.socialworkawards.com

Tameside Adult Services are committed to helping their employees to develop, grow and meet personal career aspirations.  Find out more about how they can support you, while you support others at www.tameside.gov.uk/adultssocialcarejobs