Gloucestershire Echo

Tom recognised for his commitment and passion for social work

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ONE of the county council’s social workers has received a nationwide award in recognitio­n of his outstandin­g contributi­on to the social work profession.

Tom Chandler, a social worker in Adult Services, was recognised by the British Associatio­n of Social Workers (BASW) ‘Amazing Social Workers Awards’ for his outstandin­g contributi­on to the profession.

Amazing Social Workers is a campaign championin­g the exceptiona­l work happening across the UK social work profession. It is run by BASW which is the UK’S largest profession­al body for social work.

The awards aim to shine a spotlight on the achievemen­ts of individual­s and teams in the profession, whilst also highlighti­ng the vital importance of social work to our communitie­s.

Tom was nominated by Joanne Walker, integrated social care manager who said: “Tom is a passionate, committed member of our team, who is always striving for the best outcomes for the individual­s he works with, and has a keen interest in educating and supporting the learning of others.

“His work is creative, person centred, and strengths based. He recognises where individual­s can develop and is keen to empower and support them to achieve their goals and wishes.

“Not only is Tom our Autism Champion, but Tom is our champion to all the people he works with and the people he supports.”

Tom was delighted to receive an award saying: “I was so pleased to receive this award and deeply humbled to be nominated.

“Having read through many of the nomination­s it is clear to see that there are many profession­als out there striving to make a difference to those they work with, to be recognised alongside them is an honour I shall cherish for years to come!”

Sarah Scott, executive director of adult social care, wellbeing and communitie­s at Gloucester­shire County Council said: “I am delighted that one of our social workers has been recognised in the Amazing Social Worker Awards.

“The award recognises Tom’s dedication and commitment to the people he champions and supports on a daily basis and the positive contributi­on he makes to their lives.

“As well as his passion for education which sees him sharing his learning with colleagues to improve social work practice.

“It is wonderful to see the difference he makes recognised at a national level.”

A total of 148 individual­s and teams were recognised this year, including frontline practition­ers, students, managers, leaders, educators, and newly qualified social workers.