Manchester Metropolitan Social Work Grad Shortlisted for National Award

A recent Manchester Metropolitan University graduate has been shortlisted for Student Social Worker of the Year thanks to her commitment to social justice and helping others.

Victoria Stephenson, who graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University in July 2018, is one of four individuals shortlisted in the Student Social Worker category at the Social Worker of the Year Awards 2018.

The annual awards celebrate the achievements of practitioners in both children’s and adult services from across England, with the Student Award recognising students who show “outstanding potential”.

On being shortlisted, Victoria said: “To be named as a finalist has been overwhelming and I feel extremely proud of myself and the commitment that I have put into my studies and professional practice.

“I entered the field of social work to genuinely help make a difference to the lives of families, to ensure they felt supported and guided whilst facing some of the most challenging moments in their lives.”

Accolades

During her time on the BA (Hons) Social Work course, Victoria's work and dedication continued to impress.

Victoria was awarded the Kim Lindfield Prize for Outstanding and Ethical Practice at graduation. She was also awarded the Student Social Worker of the Year Award at the Stockport Family Annual Conference following her final-year placement with the Children with Disabilities Team at Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council, where she now works as a newly qualified social worker.

Andrea Collins, Head of Undergraduate and Qualifying Programmes and Jenny Fisher, Head of Department, said: “The social work team would like to congratulate Victoria on being shortlisted as a finalist for Student Social Worker of the Year. This is a well-deserved accolade.

“During her studies, Victoria impressed us with her commitment to social justice and ensuring that her practice was always child focused.  Victoria was a champion for children with disabilities and their families. She is an ambassador for our social work students here at Manchester Metropolitan.  We wish her every success at the awards.”

Shortlisted

Another Manchester Metropolitan University graduate, Theresa Forrester, has also been shortlisted for the Children’s Social Worker of the Year award.

Andrea Collins and Jenny Fisher added: “Theresa showed an on-going commitment to championing the importance of undergraduate routes into social work. She was incredibly capable and thoughtful as demonstrated in her practice. We would also like to wish her every success."

The winners will be revealed at a prestigious awards ceremony in London in November.