The role of Northumberland’s social workers in supporting people to live their best lives is being celebrated on World Social Work Day 2023.  

 

Northumberland employs over 300 social workers across children’s and adult services in our communities, schools and hospitals – but more are needed to join the team. 

 

World Social Work Day is an annual celebration that aims to shine a spotlight on the achievements of social work and its value for individuals, families and communities, particularly during uncertain and challenging times.  

 

Council Leader Glen Sanderson, said: “Our social workers really are everyday heroes, supporting our residents to overcome any challenges they might face and live the best life that they can. 

 

“I want to take this opportunity to say to all of them - thank you for your passion and dedication to your role. You help so many people of all ages day in, day out, so a huge thank you to all of you.  

 

“The messages of heartfelt thanks from our residents capture how the care that they show – often going above and beyond in their role – can transform lives. 

 

“I would encourage anyone who wants to help make a difference in people's lives; to children, young people, their families or vulnerable adults who need additional support, to consider or return to a career in social care and come and join us.” 

 

The council is committed to protecting and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and continues to look at innovative ways to bring more social workers on board. 

 

Northumberland is recognised nationally for its Children’s ASYE Social Work Academy - a model that is now being rolled out into Adults Services too.  

 

The purpose of the academies is to give all newly qualified social workers support, protected time to develop their knowledge and skills, and a high level of supervision so they can consolidate their capabilities and feel nurtured throughout the experience.
 

Step Up To Social Work is a 14-month, full time training programme offering talented graduates and career changers the chance to become the next generation of child and family social workers. 

 

There is also an apprenticeship route for those looking to gain practical experience as they learn. 

 

Glenn Todd, is an apprentice social worker with the Children’s Services central locality team. He joined the council as a residential childcare officer before becoming a social work assistant.  

 

Glenn is now nearing the end of his Social Work Integrated Degree Apprenticeship which sees him combine academic study at Sunderland University with work-based learning.   

 

He said: “My passion for social work spans back to when I was a child as my best friend was a cared for child and spoke fondly about how much his social worker made a positive difference in his life.  

 

“I began to see that the qualities he saw in his social worker - being empathetic, listening, helpful, supportive, but mainly being a positive role model to keep my friend safe, helped me realised that becoming a social worker was a main goal of mine. 

 

“I enjoy working alongside people to find solutions to any problems they may face, and overall help protect children, young people and vulnerable adults for any abuse or harm.   

 

“Personally, I do not feel there is any more rewarding personal aspect in your life than supporting someone to overcome their difficulties and help change their life for the better. 

 

“From beginning evening classes six years ago to now being in my final few months of my Social Work Degree, I would not be where I am today if it was not for the support from Northumberland County Council and my amazing management team.” 

   

Katie Siddle is an experienced social worker and one of the team managers in Northumberland’s new Adult Social Work Academy. 
 

Katie said: “I believe being a social worker is a privilege, I feel there’s a huge sense of reward in the job.  
 

“As much as it can be challenging at times, there’s always those sparks of joy when you empower people to make really positive changes in their lives and you can see the difference our support has made.”