Central Bedfordshire Council news and press releases

Three Central Bedfordshire Council social workers shortlisted for prestigious award

Tuesday, 13 August 2024

Three social workers from Central Bedfordshire Council have been shortlisted for an award at the Social Worker of the Year Awards.

Chloe-Ann Turner and Holly Shreeves have both been named as finalists in the Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year category, and Elizabeth Badu has been named as a finalist in the Newly Qualified Adult Social Worker of the Year 2024 category.

The finalists were chosen by panels of independent judges including previous award winners, social workers, industry leaders and people with lived experience of social work. They will find out if they have won at a special event this November in London. For 2024, there are18 categories, as well as the ‘Overall Social Worker of the Year’.

Councillor Steve Owen, Executive Member for Children and Families, said:

Social work is a rewarding career, and it's a fantastic achievement that Chloe-Ann and Holly, both at the start of their careers, have been named as finalists for the Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year Award. Our social workers are dedicated to keeping children and families safe, and I’m pleased that the awards give an opportunity for them to be recognised for the dedication to the families they work with, and for the positive impact they make. I know we are all wishing Chloe-Ann and Holly luck ahead of the ceremony in November, but longer term we look forward to seeing them continue to grow and succeed in their careers.

Councillor. Mark Smith, Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said:

I want to congratulate Elizabeth Badu on being shortlisted for the Newly Qualified Adult Social Worker of the Year 2024! This recognition is a testament to Elizabeth’s dedication, compassion, and the positive impact she has already made in her early career. Our social workers are invaluable to our communities, and through their tireless efforts, they make a difference in the lives of so many residents every day. Best of luck to Elizabeth and thank you for your commitment to excellence.

The Social Worker of the Year Awards is the only major national awards event for social work in England, attracting hundreds of entries every year.