Portsmouth’s all-staff forum highlights social work excellence with team awards

Social care practitioners at Portsmouth City Council joined together at an all-staff forum on Monday 25 November 2024 to celebrate their successes over the past year.

After last year’s uplifting event at The Queens Hotel, colleagues returned to this historic venue for an exciting and inspiring day of connection, reflection, and recognition.

This annual event provides an opportunity for team members and their managers to come together to network and review best practice.

This year, both senior leaders and team members were invited to nominate colleagues for going above and beyond the call of duty in their roles in a mini-award ceremony.

Practitioners were presented with certificates in different award categories, including children's home worker of the year, social worker of the year and team player of the year.

The nominations highlighted outstanding practice across children's social care, including one colleague described as "one of the most compassionate, dedicated social workers I have had the privilege to work with."

Clare Poyner, principal social worker, children’s social care at Portsmouth City Council said:

“This year, we wanted to recognise even more people in their teams, to raise awareness of the excellent work that goes on. By involving everyone in the process to put forward colleagues, this approach made everything more accessible.

“The event also gave us an opportunity to raise the profile of the work being undertaken by practitioners to support our families, showcasing best practice.”

Sam Bushby, deputy director, children’s services at Portsmouth City Council said:

"It is important that we continue to recognise the achievements and successes of our colleagues. The all-staff forum provides a special opportunity to highlight examples of good practice and see the difference this makes.

 "I'm incredibly proud of our relational practice in Portsmouth and how this supports and enables positive change."

Join the team who are #ProudToBePortsmouth

Portsmouth’s all-staff forum is just one example of our commitment to continuing professional development. We are looking for qualified and experienced social workers to join Portsmouth City Council. View our latest vacancies and apply today!