Hounslow Council has three social workers nominated in separate categories for this year’s Social Worker of the Year Awards, held in London in November.
Published: Tuesday, 3rd September 2024
Jonas Kurkalang has been nominated for Children’s Social Worker of the Year; Andy O’Sullivan is vying for Team Leader of the Year, Children’s Services and Aaron Evans is up for Newly Qualified Adult Social Worker of the Year. All three were nominated by colleagues at Hounslow Council and chosen by panels of independent judges including previous award winners, social workers, industry leaders and people with lived experience of social work.
The Social Worker of the Year Awards is the only major national awards event for social work in England, attracting hundreds of entries every year.
Hounslow Council leader, Cllr Shantanu Rajawat commented: “It’s testament to our team of social workers that they have achieved multiple nominations at the most prestigious event in the sector. All three have shown the range of qualities necessary to shine in these important roles, including compassion, dedication, and expertise in their respective practises. On behalf the Council, let’s wish them the best of luck!”
Peter Hay CBE, Chair of the Social Work Awards, said: “This year we received hundreds of entries which goes to show how passionate organisations and individuals are to shine a light on the inspirational achievements of an often-overlooked profession.”
Jonas specialises in adoption and his nomination spoke of his “exceptional commitment and qualities” that has “made a significant impact in the lives of very vulnerable children in Hounslow.” A major part of his role involves ensuring that children are transitioned to their ‘forever families’ within timescales and with support.
Helen Crafter, a foster carer from Chiswick describes Jonas as a “fantastic” social worker and expands upon the final moments of that process in a blog you can read on the Council’s website.
Andy has worked for Hounslow Council since 2018, where he has developed his skills and knowledge to become an advance practitioner, Assistant Team Manager and in 2022 was appointed Team Manager for the Adolescent Team. Andy is credited with adopting a long-term plan involving a recruitment strategy and an all-round approach that builds trust and long-term relationships with children and their families.
Aaron has nearly completed his Assessed and Supported Year in Employment and has recently become an Autism Specialist Lead within the Adult Learning Disability and Autism Service. He has quickly gained a reputation for successfully assessing risk and inspires a confidence rare in a newly qualified social worker. His nomination described his as “a passionate and diligent social worker who advocates well for those he works with.”
This year the awards have eighteen categories across both children’s and adult services.
For more information about the awards visit www.socialworkawards.com
