Profiles
30 March
Practice Educators
Practice Supervisors
Associate Professors
ASYE Assessors
31 March
Spotlight
Emma Lister
Emma is a practice educator at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Emma is an outstanding nominee for Amazing Social Worker of the Year 2026, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the Think Ahead programme and the development of future practitioners. As a Practice Educator, Emma embraces creativity in providing opportunities for students, ensuring their learning experience is rich, reflective, and empowering. She models curiosity and humility by learning alongside her students, fostering a collaborative environment that inspires confidence and professional growth.
Balancing her responsibilities as a mentor with the demands of her service and a complex adult mental health caseload, Emma exemplifies resilience and dedication. Her ability to maintain high standards of care while nurturing others speaks to her exceptional organizational skills and deep-rooted passion for social work values. Emma strives continuously to be her best, committing to her own professional development and sharing learning generously with colleagues and students alike.
Her approach is grounded in empathy and a genuine desire to empower others, creating a culture of support and excellence within her team. Emma’s creativity, leadership, and commitment to nurturing talent make her not only an asset to her service but also a role model for the profession. She truly embodies the qualities that define an Amazing Social Worker.
Katie Dally
Katie is a practice educator
Katie is an outstanding practitioner whose commitment to continuous learning and best practice sets her apart. She takes her role as Domestic Abuse Champion seriously and is a driving force in awareness and learning, ensuring that colleagues have the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to one of the most complex issues in social work.
As a Research in Practice (RiP) Link Officer, she plays a pivotal role in connecting evidence-based research with frontline practice. Her ability to translate theory into practical strategies has strengthened the team’s approach to safeguarding and improved outcomes for children and families. Katie ensures that all RiP resources are shared in peer supervision sessions.
Her passion for learning is matched by her dedication to sharing knowledge. She creates opportunities for reflection, discussion, and growth, fostering a culture where professional development is valued and embedded in everyday practice. Katie is creative, kind and caring so her advice is taken well and she is helping learners, students and ASYEs thrive.
For these reasons, she truly deserves recognition for her exceptional contribution.
Katy Cleece
Katy is a practice educator at Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust
I nominate Katy because she represents the very best of social work: compassionate, values-driven, and deeply committed to empowering others. Katy creates spaces where people feel safe, understood and never judged. Even during challenging moments, she offers steady support while encouraging thoughtful, proportionate action that keeps individuals’ strengths and stories at the centre.
As a mentor, she is exceptional. Most of the time she has experience in whatever I’m exploring, drawing on a career full of rich, varied learning and experience. And on the rare occasion she doesn’t know something, she immediately finds someone I can shadow, a resource to read, or a professional to connect with. She treats students as emerging colleagues and genuinely believes in their potential.
Alongside this, Katy brings research to life in an accessible, inspiring way. Her passion for co-production and improving social care outcomes never overshadows her warmth- it deepens it. She shows that research, relationships, and humanity can sit side by side in practice.
Katy is inspiring, passionate, and quietly transformative. She is the kind of social worker who changes confidence, practice, and lives- and the kind of social worker I aspire to be.
We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you for your selfless dedication to our profession and the people we support - for being an Amazing Social Worker.
Lizzy Heafield
Lizzy was a practice educator but moving to practice supervisor role at Lincolnshire County Council
Lizzy is an outstanding social worker whose dedication and passion have transformed the learning experience for countless apprentices and ASYE practitioners. In her role as Practice Educator within the Quality & Standards team, Lizzy consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every learner feels supported and empowered. She delivers engaging training sessions, creates opportunities for reflective practice, and shares her extensive knowledge generously, fostering confidence and competence in others.
Lizzy’s empathy and approachability set her apart-she is always willing to listen, guide, and provide reassurance when challenges arise, offering far more than what is expected. Her professionalism and commitment to high standards make her a role model for the social work profession. Lizzy embodies the values of social work in every interaction, demonstrating integrity, compassion, and unwavering support for colleagues and learners alike.
As Lizzy moves into a new role within authority, this nomination is both a celebration of her incredible contribution and a heartfelt thank you. Her impact will be felt for years to come, and she truly deserves recognition as an Amazing Social Worker.
Nadia Parker
Nadia is a practice educator at Swindon Borough Council
I am nominating my practice educator Nadia for this award because she is an exceptional social worker whose dedication, knowledge and commitment to others are truly inspiring. Her depth of expertise is remarkable, and she consistently uses it to not only guide her practice but to enrich the learning of those she supports.
Nadia goes above and beyond offering unwavering encouragement, thoughtful guidance and genuine care. Nadia creates a safe, reflective and empowering learning environment, where I feel supported to grow. Her ability to balance high expectations with so much compassion and understanding, has pushed me to develop confidence in my own abilities and a clearer sense of the social worker I aspire to become.
For all these reasons, and many more, she truly is deserving of recognition. She exemplifies the heart, skill and integrity of an outstanding social worker, and I am deeply grateful for the guidance and support.
Beth Pearson
Beth is a practice supervisor at City of York Council
Beth is an incredibly valued member of our team. She epitomises what a practice supervisor should be, promoting reflection and analysis with the team, role modelling good practice and supporting practitioners to plan and complete complex pieces of work. She does all this with such calmness, a smile, and her famous made up phrases which keep us all entertained.
This piece of feedback she received from a grandmother she has worked closely demonstrates the impact she is having on others:
"I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for Beth, who has been working with my family. She is an absolute asset to your team. Every time we've interacted, Beth has gone above and beyond to help me, reassure me, and explain everything in a way that's easy to understand. Her communication skills are outstanding, and I feel a real connection with her due to her passion and caring nature.
I've never met a social worker like Beth before. She consistently shows a willingness to help my grandchildren, my daughter, and me, often going the extra mile. I'm so grateful to your management for assigning Beth to work with my grandchildren. Even [my daughter] commented last week that Beth is "so good" - which is high praise from her, as she's not one to give compliments easily."
We're very proud of you, Beth, and so lucky to have you :)
David Proudfoot
David is a practice supervisor at Oxfordshire County Council
David is a powerhouse within the DoLS team, not only does he complete assessments for DoLS that are person centred and place great importance on the wishes and feelings of the individual, but he also maintains the complex case spreadsheet so we do not lose sight of those potentially objecting but not actually vocalising their objections as well as those within the Courts to ensure the continuation of the Safeguards throughout the process. David also pays particular attention to those he line manages and sees each of them in person once a month to ensure they are supported. David strives to ensure that all workers within OCC have a good grasp of the MCA and DoLS legislation and he provides training for all even though this isn't strictly within his remit. He is very approachable and is well known within our team for his detailed knowledge of the Community DoL legislation. David has developed a tool that helps the Council prioritise which assessments need to be completed urgently and those that could potentially wait.
David is also a Practice Educator and regularly takes students.
David runs the MCA forums for Adult Social Care teams and takes time to prepare presentations for these. The forums are very well attended and often have over 100 people attending.
I don't think that our Team would function as well without him, and I personally value his help and commitment as I am sure many others so.
Dr Tam Cane
Tam is a practice educator
Tam’s teaching was exemplary throughout the course, consistently supporting social work students as they navigated complex theories, practices, and real-world challenges. Her diverse attitude toward students, marked by empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of varied learning styles, created an inclusive environment where everyone felt encouraged to participate and grow. Tam’s profound knowledge and finely honed skills elevated each lesson, transforming the classroom into a space of curiosity, reflection, and professional development.
What set Tam apart was her ability to translate theory into practice while inspiring students to think critically about the social structures that influence children, families, and communities. Her development of the Transcultural Framework further showcased her commitment to improving child adoption processes and supporting families through transitional periods (https://transracialadoptionframework.uk).
This framework not only reflects her relentless dedication to cultural sensitivity and ethical practice but also provides a meaningful tool for practitioners seeking to foster stability, belonging, and positive outcomes for children. Through her expertise, compassion, and unwavering support, Tam cultivated an avenue for students to excel academically and professionally.
Her influence will undoubtedly continue to guide our practice as emerging social workers committed to holistic and culturally informed care.
Amy Gilbank
Amy is a ASYE assessor at York Council
I would like to nominate Amy, as I have been fortunate to have her both as my practice educator and my ASYE assessor. Amy has been my biggest cheerleader at work. She is kind, caring, and has taken the time to get to know me and my best ways of working, embracing them fully.
Her support during my student placement led to such a positive experience that I was eager to return to the team. The knowledge and skills she has shared in both roles have not only shaped me but also then positively impacted the young people and families I work with.
In my newly qualified year, Amy’s confidence and belief in me directly influenced how I felt about my work and the growth of my own self-belief. She created an environment where supervisions felt a safe space to be open, honest and question things, which has been invaluable regarding building my practice.
Anyone would be lucky to have Amy as a supervisor. I feel it is important to recognise the incredible support she has given me over the past two years, and the lasting impact this will have both on me, but also my current and future families.
Mandy-Jayne Lace
Mandy-Jayne is a student at Accessibility Partners
To round off this year’s Amazing Social Workers campaign, we’re giving a special shout out to social work student at Cardiff Met University, Mandy-Jane Lace who received an incredible 17 nominations from social work colleagues and people with lived experience.
A number of heart-warming examples have been shared which underline the huge appreciation and regard that so many have for MJ and the lengths she goes to in her practice to support, empower and champion those around her.
From everyone at BASW, we want to say a big thank you to MJ for the positive difference she makes to people’s lives everyday – it is a privilege to be celebrating these wonderful testimonies to your great work.
Nomination 1
Mandy-Jane is an incredible woman impacting thousands of disabled people’s lives with her work, including mine. She goes above and beyond in supporting those she works with and is creating huge and much needed change in the UK and beyond. Being a student social worker on top of all she does is amazing! She deserves all the recognition she can get.
Nomination 2
I’ve seen how Mandy Jane has applied herself since studying to become a social worker. She’s dedicated her life deserving others and she is an incredible person.
Nomination 3
Very friendly and efficient company that go above and beyond to help get what we need. All her team are so lovely and I don’t know what I would have done without them , especially Shavone who has helped so much. They all deserve this award.
Nomination 4
She is always all about uplifting others. I have followed her stories all over the world and she is an all in person when it comes to doing all it takes for persons with disabilities. More of an example to the rest of the world. A real hero.
Nomination 5
I have known MJ now for over 2 years. She has helped me to get Access to Work funding so I can continue to work, live an independent life and continue to make a contribution to society. I could not have done this without her guidance, kindness and knowledge. I know she has done this for many, disabled people who are unable to navigate the very complex and unfair system to get the help they need, to live their lives with respect. Her services are rights based, inclusive, outcomes orientated and person centred. She works with each client personally, provides tailored advice, help and support. She then helps the client through every step at the process. I would very much like her to be recognised for the tremendous work she does, tirelessly, engendering positiveness and ‘can do’ attitude for people who have no where else go. Every day she makes real differences to lives of disabled people. She also uses her tenacity and personality and knowledge to lobby and make changes at system level.
It is my absolute pleasure to nominate her for the award and wish her all the success so can continue to do her valuable work.
Nomination 6
MJ has changed my life for the better. Her motivation, empowerment and drive have shown me that disabilities and neurodiversity’s should not stop any of us from achieving great things. I have for a long time felt that standing out is a bad thing but now I see it as a platform for good and that is all thanks to MJ. I have never met anyone that should be recognised more for their absolute core ability to make change in people's lives than MJ.
Nomination 7
MJ is an outstanding practitioner of people of determination. She is passionate, effective and I personally saw the effect of the services she is developing in the UAE as well as in the UK, especially Wales. As a fellow disabled person we both provided support to Air EMERITES new electronic check in system. I have now spent time with this incredible lady. She is valuable to this profession and POD’s speak of this everywhere she goes.
Nomination 8
She is an exceptionally talented individual and it is rare to get someone if her lived experience and academic qualifications pursuing a career in social work. She inspires the people she works with just by being.
Nomination 9
Very supportive and knowledgeable, understanding and knows the challenges faced when people unfairly judge people with disabilities
Nomination 10
MJ has been such a wonderful support throughout both my academic and employment journey. She is the most enthusiastic, driven and positive person and professional there is ! I am super grateful for all she has done and continues to do for me. Her steadfast commitment to supporting those with barriers shines from within. MJ is an all round legend who truly deserves this award.
Nomination 11
Because she is amazing and touches so many disabled people’s lives positively.
Nomination 12
M-J is an amazing advocate for those with disabilities who need support and guidance to help them to navigate the world.
Nomination 13
I am nominating Mandy-Jayne Lace for her exceptional compassion, dedication and advocacy. She has gone above and beyond to support me in both my personal and professional life, helping me regain confidence in who I am and what I can achieve. Mandy-Jayne has guided me through complex processes including PIP, DSA, Access to Work, Occupational Health and Reasonable Adjustments, as well as my ASD and ADHD referrals, all with remarkable patience and understanding. She has recognised and articulated things about me that I hadn’t yet understood myself, empowering me to embrace my strengths and needs with pride. Mandy-Jayne hasn’t just supported me; she has actively campaigned for me and ensured my voice is heard. Her empathy and determination have had a life-changing impact, and I am endlessly grateful for her unwavering belief in me.
Nomination 14
This woman is fantastic and a fountain of knowledge...
Nomination 15
MJ is an incredibly supportive student social worker, often through her Accessibility Company, which helps people find work based on their life experiences. She's a cheerleader for everyone else as a member of the Disability Union, but she should be celebrated for her persistence in inclusion, towards a better future for everyone.
Nomination 16
I’ve known M-J for two years now and I can say there are few who are as dedicated to working tirelessly for disabled people. Being disabled herself has not stopped M-J from working to ensure that disabled people are able to access suitable facilities, gain access to government support and generally live a better life. Having had disability affect my family, I know how important advocates like M-J are and she is an amazing example for others to follow.
Nomination 17
Mandy-Jayne is supporting and enabling so many disabled people into the workplace with her company, Accessibility Partners. She is helping people find and maintain their independence, she is helping people to live and work alongside able bodied people, to earn an income and enjoy their place in society. Mandy-Jayne is changing the mindset of employers and helping them to realise there is so much value in supporting disabled people in the workplace. Mandy-Jayne is a leader with vision in a world where the disabled community have to fight so hard to be accepted, she is giving people back their value, self-worth and self-esteem and enabling people to fight back against negativity and exclusion.