Hampshire County Council’s Children’s Services recognised in national awards

The authority’s Out of Hours team, which supports professionals and members of the public with urgent safeguarding or welfare concerns outside of normal office hours, has taken home the gold award for its inspiring teamwork. It was one of five finalists all vying to be named ‘Team of the Year’ at this year’s awards, which took place on Friday, 17 October. 

Councillor Roz Chadd, Cabinet Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “Congratulations to our Out of Hours team on this remarkable achievement. Working as a team both within the County Council and with our partners is essential to keeping our most vulnerable children and families safe. This award recognises that we continue to do this to the highest possible standards, working together to protect those at risk and deliver the very best outcomes.”

The Out of Hours team forms part of the County Council’s wider Children’s Services, which were judged as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted last year for the second time in a row. The Out of Hours service operates during weekday evenings, over the weekends and on Bank Holidays, and also supports with social care issues involving adults. Support may include responding to safeguarding concerns, providing information and advice, or undertaking assessments or more in-depth social work. The priority is to keep people safe until normal working hours resume. 

Stuart Ashley, Hampshire County Council’s Director of Children’s Services, said: “I am exceptionally proud of our Out of Hours team for winning this award, which is testament to the excellent service they provide day in, day out. Keeping children and families safe is amongst the most important of our duties as a Local Authority, and this doesn’t just stop at the end of the working day. Our Out of Hours team ensures that vital support is available around the clock, that there is continuity between respective teams, and that we and our partners are fully joined up and working as effectively as possible for the children and families who need our help.”

The Social Worker of the Year Awards are the only major national awards for social work in England and recognise positive stories of outstanding social work, creative and compassionate professionals, and inspiring practice.  This year’s shortlist included 100 practitioners, teams and organisations in 18 categories.