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Social workers from across the Southern Trust have held their annual Professional Social Work Forum acknowledging the vital role of social work in our community.
Under the theme ‘Shining a Light on Social Work’, the forum brought staff and managers together to reflect on the past year’s challenges and opportunities, while showcasing the positive impact their work has across the Trust and beyond.
Attendees were treated to a packed agenda, featuring updates on service developments and the power of collaboration. Key discussions included efforts to improve recruitment and retention in what has been acknowledged as a difficult year for the profession.
Colm McCafferty, Executive Director of Social Work and Children and Young People’s Service, said: “I was delighted to join so many of our social work colleagues at our annual event, which is so important to hold as social work plays a critical role in respect of many Trust services.
“It has been a challenging year but despite the challenges our social work colleagues have faced, they have and continue to shine bright.
“I believe it is really important to take some time to reflect, listen and learn from each other and develop our professional relationships and not to be afraid to reach out to each other for mutual support and I was delighted to hear about the brilliant work that is being undertaken despite the many challenges our social workers face.”
The forum also shared inspiring stories from social workers themselves, highlighting ‘Why Social Work Matters’. The personal accounts shed light on the critical role social work plays in supporting adults, children, and young people, illustrating the profound difference it makes in people’s lives every day.
