Social work hero: ‘She is a real asset to the adults she supports’

Charlotte Norris, a social worker for an older people’s team in North East Essex, is this week’s social work hero.

“She is a real asset to the adults she supports, her team and Essex council,” said Heather Williams, head of adult safeguarding.

This article is part of Community Care’s Stand up for Social Work campaign. We’re standing up for social work by being honest, offering support and providing inspiration.

Charlotte, who is in her Assessed and Supported Year in Employment at the council, “sensitively and proactively” supported individuals involved in two complex cases about the abuse of personal budgets where a link was discovered between the personal assistants involved.

“She was able to safeguard both individuals and support them to maintain choice and control via other means of support,” Alison Ansell, service manager for adult operations, said.

Person-centred

Williams noted that this showed “excellent person-centred social work”.

“She sensitively and proactively worked with the individuals concerned, their families and internal audit to ensure that they were safe and their needs are being met while the cases are considered by Essex Police,” Williams added.

She also proved her value by giving the details of a local resident, who helps provide meals and reduce social isolation for adults living within her community, to a colleague.

Charlotte Norris

“This allowed him to support a vulnerable adult to help himself by using the assets of the community and stay in his home,” said Williams.

Ansell added: “This was crucial for the adult concerned as he has increased his network and was able to utilise an asset within his local community when he needed support while maintaining his independence.”

Charlotte, you are a social work hero, and a box of chocolates is making its way to you now.

Do you have a social work hero? Send your nominations to luke.stevenson@rbi.co.uk

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