'Why did you become a Social Worker?'

Social Work leaders Sherry Malik and Rachel Farnham look at where it all began.

Sherry Malik, NED @DimensionsUK, Former DCS @NSPCC, Trustee @IWFhotline @socialworkaward

Sherry said: "As a teacher working with young children, I was always interested in what was going on in the family and how it impacted on the children, so when I had the opportunity of being seconded to a social work course, it seemed like a natural step.

"It's been a privilege to be a part of a profession which can help change people's lives for the better.

After more than 30 years of working in social care, I have met hundreds of social workers, working with thoughtfulness, care, and creativity.

"The pandemic did not deter them. I am in awe of the creativity with which Social Workers have continued to work. Whether dropping in essential food parcels, supporting carers looking after vulnerable adults, teaching strategies to help parents cope with lockdowns, or making safe home visits to monitor vulnerable children, Social Workers have continued to reach out - in person and online - to be there for those who need their support.

"Somewhere along the line, social work got caught up in more paperwork, and less contact with those we actually support.

The pandemic has brought into sharp focus that relationships matter, and that if we want to effect change, having a good relationship with those we support, as well as our colleagues, is essential for good outcomes.

"Working remotely has forced us to think more consciously about how to build, strengthen, and value our relationships. We have found such creative ways to keep delivering online, doing one-to-one sessions with children, keeping-in-touch calls with vulnerable adults, meetings with colleagues, training sessions, and workshops. Technology has been a blessing, allowing us to stay connected.

"As we emerge into the new normal, we must reflect on how we can use what we have experienced to build a new way of living and working.

"We long for human contact and, when we do return, let us not abandon all we have learnt during this time."

Rachel Farnham, Director of Children's Care at Middlesbrough Council

Rachel Farnham said: "It all started with a Degree in Politics at Manchester University - back in the days of the Stone Roses, the Happy Mondays, and Hacienda, so a few years ago now!

"After I graduated, I got a job as a Support Worker in a Children’s Centre in Rusholme, on the edge of Moss Side. I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do next, but I was inspired by the passion and commitment of staff working with children and families in a very deprived area of the city.

"I was totally hooked in a very short space of time with this work, the humour, and resilience in the team, as well as the fun and laughter of the centre.

"I asked the staff about their qualifications and training, and social work was what I decided to do next.

"Whilst I love being a Social Worker, my passion is that children should get the right support at the right time and at the earliest point. I learned this from my first days in the Children’s Centre.

"In Middlesbrough we have learned that we can all pull together - as a workforce, as a council and as a town - to make sure we show Middlesbrough children that they matter to us all.

"We've learned that we can be resilient and brave in the face of adversity.

"We can don our PPE, and we can go out and visit our families, and make sure they are safe and supported.

"We can also learn, and grow, and achieve, and improve our services in tough and unprecedented times.

"I am incredibly proud of all of my staff who have been imaginative and inventive, to make sure our children are seen and their voices heard.

"I am proud to be a Social Worker."