Social Workers celebrate colleague’s lifetime of achievement

Social workers gathered at the Slieve Donard Hotel for the 2019 Social Work Awards to recognise the vital role played by their profession in supporting vulnerable individuals and families across society.

The ceremony culminated with the presentation of the British Association of Social Workers Northern Ireland (BASW NI) Lifetime Achievement Award to Ms Liz Stevenson, who until her retirement in June 2019 was Corporate Parenting Head of Service, at the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.

Speaking about Ms Stevenson’s award, BASW NI Chair, Colin Reid said: “Liz epitomises the very best of social work. Throughout her long career working with Fostering and Adoption Services Liz dedicated herself to improving the life chances of young people and their carers.

“In working to ensure the best outcomes for those she supported, Liz exhibited energy, vision, and dedication, demonstrating a professionalism which is inspirational to those around her. Liz is a true champion for looked after children and a very worthy winner of the 2019 BASW NI Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Mr Reid finished by saying: “The calibre of nominations for this year’s Award was outstanding. I wish to extend my congratulations to the other finalists, Donal Diffin and Deirdre Coyle, both of whom have made an incredibly positive difference to the lives of many people who use social work services in Northern Ireland”.

ENDS

  • Photographed are (left to right) Dr Ruth Allen – Chief Executive BASW UK, Liz Stevenson – BASW NI Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Colin Reid – Chair BASW NI, and Carolyn Ewart – National Director BASW NI.
  • The British Association of Social Workers is the largest professional body for social workers across the UK. The Association has over 21,000 members employed in frontline, management, academic and research positions in all care settings.
  • The 7th Social Work Awards were organised by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and held at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle County Down on 15 November 2019.