West Sussex social workers win prestigious national awards at House of Commons

Two social workers from West Sussex County Council have been recognised for their outstanding dedication to helping vulnerable residents and families after receiving prestigious national awards at a ceremony held at the House of Commons.

Jennifer Benbow was presented with the Gold Award for Practice Leadership and Management at the Social Worker of the Year Awards, while Shona McLaughlin received Silver in the Newly Qualified Social Worker category.

The awards recognise the achievements of social workers across the country and celebrate the positive difference they make to people's lives.

Jennifer, who joined West Sussex County Council in 2004, is now a service manager in Adults' Services.

She was recognised for her previous work managing a team supporting adults with complex needs, developing partnerships with the NHS and improving outcomes for residents.

Her nomination also praised her compassionate leadership and commitment to maintaining high standards of social work practice.

Colleagues described Jennifer as "a constant source of support and calm" and "an emotional anchor during demanding periods."

Reacting to her award, Jennifer said: "It was lovely just to be nominated and to read all the personal testimonies people had written. Taking a moment to celebrate all the hard work and passion people have for this job is really important.

"I've been in social work for about 20 years, so to receive this recognition in the awards' 20th year feels particularly special."

Councillor Richard Bates, West Sussex County Council's Cabinet Member for Adults' Services, congratulated Jennifer on her achievement.

He said: "Jennifer's Gold award is a wonderful and well-deserved achievement. Her compassionate leadership and commitment to excellent social work practice have made a lasting difference to residents, colleagues and partner organisations across West Sussex.

"This national recognition reflects Jennifer's outstanding contribution to adult social care over many years. We are all very proud of her achievement."

Meanwhile, Shona McLaughlin received the Silver Award for Newly Qualified Social Worker of the Year 2026.

Shona began her career with West Sussex County Council as a child and family worker in family safeguarding before completing a social work apprenticeship in 2025.

Her nomination recognised her compassionate approach to supporting children and families, her dedication to understanding their individual circumstances and her commitment to achieving positive, lasting changes in their lives.

Councillor Sam Raby, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, praised her achievements.

He said: "Receiving a Silver award at a national ceremony is a fantastic achievement. Shona has demonstrated remarkable dedication, professionalism and empathy at the very start of her social work career.

"Her commitment to listening to children and young people, understanding their individual circumstances and helping families make positive changes represents social work at its very best."

West Sussex County Council also celebrated further success after two other social workers and a council team were shortlisted for national recognition.

Rangeley Shallis-Barnes from Children's Services and Karen Golding from Adults' Services were both shortlisted, alongside the Quality, Practice and Service Team in Adults' Services.

This year's ceremony marked the 20th anniversary of the Social Worker of the Year Awards, which attract hundreds of nominations annually and recognise exceptional contributions to social care.

More information about the awards is available at www.socialworkawards.com

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