June Thoburn & David N Jones receive lifetime achievement awards at BASW AGM
BASW members, June and David were presented with lifetime achievement awards by BASW UK Chair, Julia Ross to thank them for their many years of hard work, steadfast support and exceptional commitment to the social work profession both in the UK and internationally.
June’s lifetime contribution to the profession was also recognised in a motion proposed by Robin Sen, which was passed with overwhelming support from members.
The motion highlighted June’s varied practice, academic and campaigning work which has been “firmly grounded in a belief in the need to provide better family support and better support to children and young people in care.”
It goes on to praise June’s “fierce commitment” to social work and university based social work education, noting that she continues to “push steadfastly, with erudition, humanity, and wisdom, for better systems of support for children and families.”
BASW UK Chair, Julia Ross said:
“It was a huge pleasure to present Professor June Thoburn with the first ever BASW Lifetime Achievement award for her outstanding contribution to social work, everyday and in every way. All thanks to Robin Sen for proposing and Christian Kerr for seconding this first AGM Motion.
“June has been for me and many others the true voice of social work, always determined, insightful and inspiring. Her thoughts, beliefs and values have driven generations of social workers over the years.
“BASW applauds her dedication and passionate support for the social work community and profession. Thank you, June.”
David Jones received his award in recognition of his exceptional work across BASW and the social work profession more widely, including in various academia, practice and voluntary roles both in the UK and internationally.
As President of IFSW, David was actively involved in launching World Social Work Days and worked with BASW to help establish this as a core part of the year for all UK social workers. He also helped launch the Diaspora Special Interest Group during his time as Chair of BASW’s International Committee.
Having first joined BASW as a student, David has gone on to majorly shape and influence the association’s direction and work through a range of different roles over many years, including that of General Secretary. This is in addition to his various contributions to social work internationally, including with the Commonwealth Organisation for Social Work and Children and Families Across Borders.
Commenting on his award, David said:
“BASW, linked with IFSW, have given me access to an invaluable professional network of ethical practitioners throughout my 50-year career in social work. They have energised my professional commitment and provided endless development opportunities.
“I am immensely grateful for so many diverse experiences and for the stimulation and comradeship which I encountered. Social work practice without the support of the professional network provided by BASW is inconceivable.
“I am pleased to have made my contribution to enhancing and sustaining our global profession. I really appreciate the honour of this lifetime achievement award and send my thanks to BASW Council and all those social workers I have encountered around the world who have shaped my commitment.”
BASW UK Chair, Julia Ross added:
"David Jones has been a mover and a shaker for social work all his life. And there is no indication that he’s slowing down! Please don’t David, we all so much appreciate your determination to make a difference for people who value and need social work services. You’ve achieved this on a national, international and global scale through your many selfless contributions over the years.
"BASW has reflected your success, and grown in confidence and surety, taking your ever present leadership almost for granted which I know you will forgive us for. Your leadership in and for BASW over many years richly deserves our gratitude and celebration."