We’re proud to announce that Practice Solutions is sponsoring the Inspirational Leadership award at the Social Care Wales Accolades this year.
The Accolades recognise, celebrate and share notable work in social care and childcare, play and early years in Wales. The awards recognise the work of groups, teams and organisations, as well as works from across the public, private, voluntary and co-operative sectors.
Sarah McCarthy, Chief Executive of Social Care Wales explains: “The Accolades are our chance to recognise, celebrate and share the excellent work that’s happening across the social care and childcare, play and early years sector in Wales. And crucially, to say a massive thank you to everyone working in the sector for all that they do to support the children, adults and families in our communities across Wales.”
Practice Solutions is passionate about supporting emerging and established social care in leaders every day. This is why we’re honoured to sponsor the Inspirational Leadership award. We recognise how important it is to celebrate the valuable work of leaders in this vital sector.
“I am fortunate enough to connect on a daily basis with people who lead different parts our sector across Wales,” says Sarah Day, Chief Executive of Practice Solutions.
“A constant theme of our work is how they can support improvements and make things better for their workforce and the services they deliver. It is rarely about them.
“That’s why I’m so pleased that we’re able to place a spotlight on their personal contributions, through the Social Care Accolades in recognition of all they do to support the delivery of social care in Wales.”
The nominees are:
Avril Bracey, Head of Service for Adult Social Care at Carmarthenshire County Council
Avril began her career in social care 45 years ago as a trainee social worker in children’s services. She’s supported “innovative approaches” in adult social care and was instrumental in developing the Twilight Sanctuary, an out-of-hours well-being service for those at risk of a mental health crisis.
Avril’s nominee Corinne Everett-Guy said: “Avril is a beacon of inspiration, setting a benchmark for excellence in social care leadership. Her ability to inspire and motivate her service has led to a culture of continuous improvement and high standards.”
Ffion Cole, Principal Officer at Bridgend County Borough Council
Ffion has worked for Bridgend County Borough Council for 11 years and is the Team Manager of the North Team Locality Hub. Ffion’s leadership style is recognised across the local authority. Newly qualified or inexperienced social workers are often placed in her ‘social work academy’ for their first six months of work. Here, they’re supported and nurtured by Ffion’s expert team.
Senior Social Worker Hannah Jones says: “Ffion deserves this so much. She takes everything in her stride and is always willing to help. Since being in the team, I’ve learnt so much without feeling pressured but always supported.”
Keri Warren, Head of Children and Young People’s Services at Neath Port Talbot Council
Keri has been a dedicated part of the senior management team at Neath Port Talbot Council since 2012. She prioritises staff well-being, as the team works towards achieving positive outcomes for families. Keri reminds the team of the importance of good social work practice by creating a healthy and safe learning environment, encouraging open discussions and having a collective response to risk management.
One senior manager says: “Keri sets a high standard by example and is always looking at ways to give workers opportunities to develop and grow as practitioners. The voice of the child and family is of the utmost importance to her.”
Avril, Keri and Ffion have all been nominated by their teams for their passion, innovation and dedication. Through our work with ADSS Cymru, we’ve seen the impact of their individual contributions from a local and national perspective and look forward to celebrating with them at the ceremony.
The Social Care Wales Accolades are being held on Thursday 1 May at the Holland House Hotel Cardiff. Keep an eye out for updates from our team on the Practice Solutions LinkedIn and our blog.
