Two of the Social Care Council’s most inspirational leaders have been honoured at this week’s 2025 Regional Social Work Awards.
This year’s awards were hosted by the Western Health and Social Care Trust and show case the best of the profession’s values, achievements and those doing ground-breaking and vital work
Patricia Higgins, former Chief Executive of the Social Care Council was presented with the British Association of Social Workers Northern Ireland (BASWNI) Outstanding Achievement Award and Marian O’Rourke, former Director of Regulation and Standards received the award for Contribution to Social Work Leadership.
Altogether eight awards were presented to individuals and teams, recognising the achievements of social workers across Northern Ireland.
The event was held at the Manor House in Fermanagh, and compered by musical comedian Emer Maguire, who brought together the 22 nominated individuals and teams to celebrate.
The Social Care Council partners with other social work organisations by providing support for the awards through facilitating the nominations and judging processes.
Declan McAllister, Interim Chief Executive, Social Care Council said:
“It has been fantastic to see both Patricia and Marian recognised for their contribution not just to the Social Care Council but to social work in Northern Ireland. Throughout their careers they have practised with compassion and without judgement to support and lead the social work profession, often at times facing challenging circumstances. Their work truly deserves this accolade.
“Beyond that, seeing the social work sector as a whole recognised is something that should be celebrated. This was a record year for nominations and I hope to see the awards go from strength to strength.”
For more information
Find full details of award winners here: www. westerntrust.hscni.net/social-workers-honoured-at-regional-social-work-awards.
Follow the conversation on social media about the awards through #SWAwards2025 and help share our stories about social workers, using the #WSWD2025, #Yes2SocialWork and #SocialWorkStories campaign hashtags.
Looking for a career as a social worker? To train to be a social worker in Northern Ireland you need to complete the Honours Degree in Social Work. Check out our Interested in becoming a social worker? page for more information.
For further information or media queries please email Kerry.mckittrick@niscc.hscni.net.