Awards for adult social care workers

The Employee of the Year award went to Martin Bowley, care officer at the Conquest Centre in Hastings which is a local day service for adults with learning disabilities.

Team of the Year award went to staff at the Milton Court Centre in Eastbourne which provides vital mental health services to older people '“supporting, amongst others, individuals affected by dementia and their carers.

Learner of the Year went to Sarah Liddiard, care officer at Linden Court, also in Eastbourne, a day service for adults with learning disabilities.

The awards ceremony celebrating these and many other achievements was attended by around 200 staff and their guests.

Keith Hinkley, director of Adult Social Care, summed up saying: "Social work is an extremely rewarding profession. Time and time again, I meet individual staff members whose dedication to the job really shines through '“ and today is a case in point. It is with great pleasure that I would like to publicly thank all the winners and runners-up who have done so much to support local people. Keep up the good work."

Councillor Bill Bentley, lead member for adult social care, commented: "We've made 267 awards...That's eleven winning teams and individuals '“ plus 256 certificates for all those members of staff who've gained qualifications over the past year. Well done to all!

"The County Council has made significant progress in driving up standards of social care in East Sussex. And, although it's right and important to recognise and celebrate individual achievements, rest assured, this does not mean we're going to sit back on our laurels.

"There is significant work to be done over the next two years as we roll out a more personalised system of care in the county. Known as 'Putting People First' this programme of change will give local people more choice and control over the support they receive."