ELFT colleagues recognised as ‘Amazing Social Work Leaders’

Three social workers are from City and Hackney and two are from Biggleswade Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) in Bedfordshire.

Colleagues and managers were asked to nominate staff by the BASW, the UK’s largest professional association for social work, to celebrate World Social Work Month, and World Social Work Day on March 18.

The East London recipients are (pictured left to right) Helen Mary-Nunn, Senior Mental Health Social Worker at the Mental Health Street Triage Team at Homerton Hospital; Sylvia Lambert, Senior Practitioner and Mental Health Social Worker at Hackney Marshes Neighbourhood Mental Health Team and Sibongile Khumbala, ASYE Co-ordinator at the Social Work Learning and Development Project.

Social Worker Tracey Wright and Martin Orr, Operational Manager, are the Biggleswade CMHT recipients.

Helen Mary-Nunn
Helen received a total of 20 nominations in her name and has been praised for giving the best advice in situations, going above and beyond and being an ‘extremely dedicated hard worker’.

Sylvia Lambert
Sylvia has managed the Hackney Marshes Neighbourhood for several years and has been described as ‘a true embodiment of leader’.

Her nominator said: “She combines her big heart with her intelligence, balancing the needs of her service users, teams, and stakeholders. She is always there when you need her and would always stay late to work through any concerns you have as a staff member, so that you leave feeling a true sense of containment.”

“I am grateful to have been nominated as BASW Amazing Social Worker,” Sylvia said of the recognition.

“This recognition means so much to me, and it would not have been possible without the excellent support and collaboration of my amazing team.”

She added: “I am grateful for the opportunity to work with team members with such passion and commitment. Together, we can make a real difference, and I am delighted to be part of this team. Thank you all for your trust and encouragement.”

Sibongile Khumbala
Sibongile was recognised for her ability to empathise in her role, which allows her to work effectively as part of a team, and understand and relate to a diverse client group.

Tracey Wright
Tracey has been commended for her management of pressure during high staff turnover.
Her nominator said: “I have never seen her offer anything except gentleness and compassion to our clients and she remains open to help anyone in need.”

Martin Orr
Colleagues have said they feel lucky to work with Martin, who has been celebrated as an exceptional social worker and manager. Martin is described as remaining loyal and strong throughout many challenges and always makes himself available to listen and provide advice.