Team of the Year, Children’s Services
Case Management Team
ORGANISATION: North Lincolnshire Council
AWARD(S): Team of the Year, Children's Services
“We do what we need to and we do it together – even if it means going that extra mile.”
This ethos underpins the work of the Case Management team, who are a shining example of how to really put the voice of children and young people at the heart of social work.
From organising a Christmas party and Secret Santa to give something special to those children who wouldn’t otherwise have a great Christmas, to acquiring free cinema tickets to take 30 kids to see the Paddington Bear movie, this is a group of social workers who are committed to working closely with the local community and providing the best possible opportunities for children and young people who come into contact with the local authority.
With no extra resources, the team have also reshaped how the service works to support more children to remain at home and where appropriate, ensure plans are completed on time. This has led to particular success in improving outcomes around their court work, with the percentage of children where care proceedings are completed within the 26-week timescale increasing from 32% at the start of 2017-18, to 81% at the end of the year.
Impressive evidence of professional knowledge, skill and team-working underpinned by a phenomenal dedication to children, young people and their families. Wonderful, heartfelt endorsements from children, young people and parents, and professionals who know your work well. What a team!
Carolyne Willow, Championing Social Work Values Award Winner 2017:
I really enjoyed reading all the things done for clients, warmed my heart. Also, the wonderful statements from service users and parents was clear that people feel cared for.
David Akinsanya, Broadcaster, Journalist & Campaigner
Upon first meeting with LC, it was clear that her goal was to ensure my child had the right support he desperately needed, support I had begged for after a massive family loss. I could not have asked for a more understanding, honest and open person. I hope that LC can maintain the same compassion and honesty in her future cases as she has shown me and my child.
Service user feedback
The feedback from the children and families that we work with speaks volumes and identifies the impact that the workers have within the team. The team has excelled within this year and have grown in strength to strength together to support children and families within North Lincolnshire to achieve positive outcomes.
Ann-Marie Brierley, Head of Safeguarding Children, North Lincolnshire Council
THE JUDGES
Carolyne Willow
David Akinsanya
Dez Holmes
Isabelle Trowler
Jackie Dowding
Liz Hewitt
Sophie Lyon
THE FINALISTS
Barnsley Fostering Assessment Team, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Fair Ways Fostering
SILVER AWARD WINNER
Hillingdon Young Peoples Service
Integrated Multi Agency Partnership, North Lincolnshire Council
North Lincolnshire Adoption Team
Referral and Assessment Team, Achieving for Children
South Essex Family Centre, Essex County Council