Kirsty Ayakwah

'It is good to know that I’ve got someone to hold my hand through new pieces of work'

Cardiff Council explains how its new practice lead programme in children’s services provides a framework for newly qualified social workers to become skilled and confident

'My skillset is now 10 times greater': how collaborative working is boosting social workers’ confidence

Phil Watson, director of children’s social care, and newly qualified social worker Rhiannon explain how Norfolk County Council’s ‘call-in’ approach is sharpening practitioners’ skills and boosting...

From busking to horse-riding: using strengths-based practice to transform lives

Practitioners at Hampshire County Council show how embedding strengths-based practice is transforming how they engage with adults for the better

Tell us your best memory of Community Care Live

We want to hear about how our flagship event has helped shape your career during its 25-year history

How a back-to-basics approach to Signs of Safety is helping social workers embrace the model

North East Lincolnshire has reinvigorated the way it rolls out Signs of Safety with the introduction of training modules, refresher sessions and dedicated practice champions. Social workers explain...

Were you at the first Community Care Live in 1997?

We are looking for practitioners who attended our first event to talk about how their career has evolved over the past 25 years

How one council is working to capture the voice of the child

Cardiff Council explores the ways that young people’s wishes are incorporated into their care and what this means for practitioners in children’s services.

'It’s our job is to observe the child, find their voice and be their advocate'

Wigan Council prides itself on focusing on the voice of the children and families that practitioners support. Two social workers explain how they ensure the needs of the child are central

'When it comes to protecting children, there is no sense of hierarchy - we are in this together'

Wokingham Borough Council promotes a culture of collaboration from frontline workers through to senior leadership. Three social workers share their experiences

Training and development

Social Work Cardiff offers diverse training and support for social workers at all levels, some of which are completely unique to Cardiff.

“Even before I started working here, I felt valued”

Providing a supportive environment for staff is a cornerstone of how Cardiff Council delivers its children’s services. Three social workers explain why they feel valued at the authority