Outstanding practice recognised for social worker at Buckingham Palace event

Karley Middleton, a service leader in children’s social care at Portsmouth City Council, recently received a special honour for her 25 years of service in social work.

She was invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace, in recognition of her work supporting children, young people, and families.

Karley was among 700 community heroes invited by the Department for Education to meet members of the royal family.

For Karley, the passion for helping others started early. Social work runs deep in her family.

“My family has a long history in the profession” she shared. “My grandfather was the head of children’s services in Brighton during World War Two, and my father supported adults in Winchester. I wanted to continue that family tradition and help people in my community.”

Karley’s journey in social work began as a social services assistant with the youth offending team.

Eager to make a bigger impact, she enrolled in a social work degree at the University of Chichester and soon became a fully qualified social worker.

From there, she worked her way up through roles in information assessment and team leadership. Reflecting on her career, she said,

“It’s been a real roller coaster over the past two decades. I’m honoured to have been recognised, and it was a complete surprise when I got the email inviting me to Buckingham Palace.”

Her colleagues have taken note of her commitment and contributions, particularly with her work on the Stronger Futures Academy.

Originally designed to support newly qualified social workers in their first year, the programme has since expanded to benefit the entire children’s social care workforce.

Looking back on her career, one of Karley’s proudest moments was launching the ‘About Me Advocacy’ programme.

“This programme brings in an independent social care practitioner to work directly with a child in their home, independent from their social worker and parents. It allows the child’s voice to be heard more clearly, leading to more honest feedback and better outcomes,” Karley explained.

Karley is passionate about supporting and developing other social workers and has enjoyed watching many of her colleagues grow at Portsmouth City Council. She firmly believes her success is a team effort.

“My colleagues support me every day. We each have our own responsibilities, but we’re all working towards the same goal. I want to thank them for their support,” she said.

Karley’s special day at Buckingham Palace was a moment of pride, not just for her but for her whole family. She shared the experience with her mum, who was overjoyed.

“My mum was so proud and got choked up. She could see how social work has come full circle in our family. It was a proud moment for all of us.”

Sam BushbySam Bushby, deputy director, children’s services at Portsmouth City Council, also praised Karley’s work.

"Karley is highly valued within the service. This event was a lovely way to recognise the significant contribution she continues to make to social work practice in Portsmouth."

Inspired by Karley's story? Join the team who are #ProudToBePortsmouth

If you are a qualified and experienced social worker looking to continue your career, join Portsmouth City Council. Explore our current vacancies in children's social care today!