Five social workers from Cambridgeshire County Council have been recognised at the Social Worker of the Year Awards 2025.
- Winner (Gold): Sharon Ndoro, Social Care Practice Development Lead – International Social Worker of the Year.
- Winner (Gold) Thabang Thacker, Service Manager (Targeted Support), Children’s Social Care - Social Justice Champion.
- Runner up (Silver): Fran Marshall, Principal Social Worker (Adults) - Practice Leadership and Management, Adult Services.
- Runner up (Silver) Karen Rodgers, Practice Development Lead (Adults), HR - Learning and Development - Practice Educator of the Year.
- Runner up (Silver): Alex Giasemidis: Palliative Care Social Worker: Adult Social Worker of the Year.
A moving tribute, followed by a standing ovation, was also shared for Nora Hanna, Deprivation of Liberty (DoLs), Adult Social Care team manager, who was nominated but sadly passed away last week.
The ‘Social Worker of the Year’ Awards is one of the most prestigious events in the sector, celebrating outstanding achievement across the profession, and highlighting the transformative impact social workers have on people’s lives.
They shine a spotlight on the critical role social workers play across complex care settings, in international contexts, and in championing social justice and equality.
The winners for each of the 18 categories were revealed during an awards ceremony on Friday, 17 October. The nominations for Cambridgeshire County Council staff spanned five categories: excellence, leadership, and social impact.
Dr Stephen Moir, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire County Council, commented: “I’m incredibly proud of all our colleagues who have been recognised at this year’s Social Worker of the Year Awards. Their dedication, and professionalism, helping us to create a more caring Cambridgeshire, make a real difference in the lives of the people they support every day.
“These awards are a testament to the impact of their work and the strength of our teams across adult social care, children’s services and learning and development.”
Cllr Graham Wilson, Chair of the Adults and Health Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see our adult social care professionals being recognised nationally for their outstanding work. Their commitment to supporting people with dignity, compassion and expertise is truly inspiring.
“These awards highlight the vital role they play in our communities, and I’m delighted to see their efforts celebrated in this way.”
Cllr Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to see our children’s social care professionals being honoured for their exceptional work.
“Their dedication to safeguarding and empowering children and families is at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition reflects the passion and dedication they bring to some of the most challenging and rewarding roles in public service.”
To find out more, head to the Social Worker of the Year Awards website: Social Worker of the Year Awards | Celebrating Social Work
