Newly Qualified Children’s Social Worker of the Year


Benn Vaughan
ORGANISATION: Cumbria County Council
AWARD(S): Newly Qualified Children's Social Worker of the Year
https://vimeo.com/193553627
Benn is quick to acknowledge his transition into statutory children’s services, following a post-bachelor’s degree stint working mostly in adult social care, has involved a “steep learning curve”. But it’s the way he’s got to grips with the challenges he’s faced, as well as his keenness to take on extra ones, that made him stand out in this category.
While it may be a well-used accolade, several of the judging panel couldn’t resist pointing to the “passion” for social work that shone from Benn’s nomination, as well as his obvious development during his first year.
Besides managing a range of complex cases, he’s been promoting resilience workshops for other NQSWs and other colleagues, with an eye on mitigating burnout and skill-sharing – hopefully helping fellow social workers find ways to enjoy longer careers in the profession.
Despite his relative lack of experience Benn has shown an aptitude for leadership, taking on the role of champion both for homeless 16–17 year olds and for the team’s electronic database, ICS. He has already found himself able to offer support and guidance both to student social workers and to more experienced practitioners who have moved into child protection from other areas.
WHAT THEY SAID:
There is a real sense from the application that Benn will go on developing as a practitioner and aiding others to be the very best social workers they can be. I can't wait to see where his career takes him, I am sure we will be hearing about Benn in the future.
Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families
What shines through is a real passion for social work and a commitment to children and families.
Annie Hudson, Interim Strategic Director, Children’s Services, Lambeth CounciL
I don't know of all of what he does or has achieved but Benn has helped me turn my life around and I can't thank him enough. I have a future again.
Service user
THE FINALISTS
Connie Hazell, Essex County Council
SILVER AWARD WINNER
Francesca Rye, Norfolk County Council
Joanne Salisman, Wolverhampton City Council
Jakki Cahill, Brighton & Hove City Council
Nicolas Jeffreys, Coventry City Council
Sarah Kelly, Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council