Birmingham celebrates its newly qualified social workers

Held at Edgbaston Stadium, over 100 social workers were invited to the event to celebrate their achievements, and to receive their certificates for completing their assisted and supported year in employment (ASYE).

"Every person should be proud of their achievements, especially due to what they have achieved during a pandemic," said Mandy Braham, Team Manager for Fostering in Birmingham Children's Trust.

Adeeba Shah, from Birmingham, said: “I completed my ASYE in October 2021, starting the programme remotely and meeting my colleagues virtually. It has been great to come along to this event and celebrate with everyone face to face and also talk to others about my experience.”

Sarah Tolan, also from Birmingham, said: “It’s nice to be able to celebrate and to see everyone again, I know a lot of people from my University course and it’s great to catch up!”

“It’s lovely to see lots of people and meet each other in person, I think it’s important to have these events to celebrate our colleague's achievements and form strong relationships as it’s the people that make the organisation,” said James Burn, Team Manager for Safeguarding at Birmingham Children’s Trust.

The 12-month ASYE programme develops skills, knowledge and professional confidence to ensure social workers are prepared at the very start of their careers to support children, young people and families. During the year, social workers have access to regular and focused support from experienced Team Managers.

The Trust’s Practice Academy aspires to be the best place to practice social work and associated services with families and to make a real difference in the lives of the city’s most vulnerable children.

To find out more about, visit www.birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk/practiceacademy