Five outstanding social workers from Cambridgeshire County Council have been recognised for their dedication and impact at the 2025 Social Worker of the Year Awards, one of the most prestigious events in the profession. The awards celebrate individuals and teams who make a profound difference in people’s lives and highlight the vital role social workers play across communities, care settings, and social justice initiatives.
Cambridgeshire’s social care professionals were nominated across five categories, with two taking home Gold awards and three receiving Silver. Sharon Ndoro, Social Care Practice Development Lead, was named International Social Worker of the Year, and Thabang Thacker, Service Manager for Targeted Support in Children’s Social Care, won Social Justice Champion of the Year. Both were praised for their leadership and commitment to improving lives through compassionate, inclusive practice.
Silver awards went to three more members of the council’s social care teams. Fran Marshall, Principal Social Worker for Adults, was recognised for Practice Leadership and Management (Adult Services). Karen Rodgers, Practice Development Lead in Adult Services HR and Learning and Development, received Silver for Practice Educator of the Year, acknowledging her work in mentoring and training new social workers. Alex Giasemidis, a Palliative Care Social Worker, was named runner-up in the Adult Social Worker of the Year category, in recognition of her sensitive and transformative work supporting individuals and families through end-of-life care.
The ceremony also included an emotional tribute and standing ovation for Nora Hanna, a much-respected team manager in the Adult Social Care Deprivation of Liberty team, who was nominated for an award but sadly passed away last week. Her contribution to social work in Cambridgeshire was described as “immeasurable” by colleagues.
Held on Friday, 17 October, the awards brought together professionals from across the UK to celebrate excellence in social work. With 18 categories in total, the event highlighted achievements in areas such as leadership, equality, innovation, and best practice.
Dr Stephen Moir, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire County Council, said the recognition reflected the exceptional quality and commitment of the council’s social care teams. “I’m incredibly proud of all our colleagues who have been recognised at this year’s Social Worker of the Year Awards,” he said. “Their dedication and professionalism in 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.”
Councillor Graham Wilson, Chair of the Adults and Health Committee, said he was delighted to see Cambridgeshire’s adult social care professionals recognised on a national stage. “Their commitment to supporting people with dignity, compassion and expertise is truly inspiring,” he said. “These awards highlight the vital role they play in our communities, and I’m delighted to see their efforts celebrated in this way.”
Councillor Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee, praised the achievements of those working in children’s services. “I’m absolutely thrilled to see our children’s social care professionals being honoured for their exceptional work,” she said. “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.”
Cambridgeshire County Council has consistently championed professional development in social care, supporting innovative training, wellbeing initiatives, and leadership programmes for its staff. The success of its nominees at this year’s awards highlights the council’s ongoing investment in people and practice.
Across the county, social workers provide vital support to individuals and families facing complex and sensitive challenges — from protecting children at risk and promoting independence in adults to helping those with disabilities and life-limiting illnesses. The recognition of five social workers from one local authority underscores the strength and quality of Cambridgeshire’s approach to care.
As the winners return to their teams, they are being celebrated not only for their awards but for their example — embodying what the Social Worker of the Year Awards are designed to honour: compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
