'A bright future' for Portsmouth social worker shortlisted in national awards scheme

A social worker in Portsmouth has been recognised for their achievements at a national awards scheme for the profession. 

Emma Cove, a social worker in the family support and safeguarding team at Portsmouth City Council has been shortlisted in the newly qualified social worker of the year category for her kind and compassionate practice.

Emma started at the council during her final year at university while on placement. After graduating, she joined the service working in a parent and baby setting. In this role, she grew in confidence and gained a comprehensive understanding of child development.

In her nomination, colleagues highlighted how Emma always considers the needs of individuals and adapts her work to ensure families have the best chances of success.

Emma Cove has been shortlisted for newly qualified social worker of the yearCouncillor Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

"I would like to congratulate Emma for being shortlisted in the Social Worker of the Year Awards. Emma's story is inspirational, joining us while on placement at university and then becoming a permanent member of the team upon graduation.  

"It is clear Emma's work is valued as she continues developing her skills and expertise. Becoming a social worker is a challenging yet rewarding job. Emma has taken it in her stride as she continues to support families within the city."

The Social Worker of the Year Awards is a national awards event for social work in  England, attracting hundreds of entries every year.

The finalists were chosen by a panel of independent judges including previous award winners, social workers, industry leaders and people with lived experience of social work.

Left to right Emma Cove and Alice Lee

Emma Cove, social worker at Portsmouth City Council said:

"It's such a wonderful feeling to be recognised for your work. While I'm only at the start of my social work career, every day is different. I have gained so much experience and confidence, thanks to my supportive team and managers.

"This award is recognition for all our efforts as we are never alone when supporting families. I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who put me forward for this award and for saying such lovely things about me."

All those who have been shortlisted are being recognised for their extraordinary practice and will find out if they have won the award in their category at a special event this November in London.

Alice Lee, team leader and Emma's line manager said:

"Emma is a dedicated and motivated team member who has a real can-do attitude. This is evident in her desire to develop her skills and the support she offers other social workers.

"She has such a bright future ahead of her. I would like to thank Emma for all she does and the meaningful support she provides families."

Sam Bushby, deputy director for children's services said:

"This is such lovely recognition of Emma's practice and so well deserved. We are incredibly proud of Emma and her work with children and families. We will be rooting for her in November at the awards ceremony."

The Social Worker of the Year Awards have 18 categories across both children’s and adult services including two new categories for 2024; the Technology Enabled Lives and Practice Award and Practitioner-Led Research Award. 

Join Emma's team who are #ProudToBePortsmouth

If you feel inspired by Emma's story and are looking at your next steps in children's social care, join the team who are #ProudToBePortsmouth. We are looking for qualified and experienced social workers to join the family support and safeguarding team.