Three social workers from Gloucestershire County Council have been shortlisted in the annual Social Worker of the Year Awards for their extraordinary support for adults with care and support needs.

The Social Worker of the Year awards are organised by the Social Work Awards charity, which aims to improve public awareness and understanding of social work by showing the positive impact of social workers in the wide range of roles they undertake.

Finn Jarvis, social worker (Gloucester locality team), has been selected as a finalist for Newly Qualified Social Worker of the Year. Finn is one of eight finalists in this category which recognises social workers with less than one year's experience who have made a positive difference to the lives of adults or families through their outstanding work.

Eniola Obikoya, newly qualified social worker (hospital team) and Cynthia Minett, newly qualified social worker (Cheltenham locality team), have been selected as finalists for the Social Justice Advocate Award. Eniola and Cynthia are amongst six finalists in this category which recognises social workers who demonstrate a commitment to challenge injustice, seek to achieve greater equality for different social groups and challenge discriminatory systems.

Cllr Kathy Williams, cabinet member for adult social care at Gloucestershire County Council said: "I am delighted that three of our social workers have been shortlisted in the Social Worker of the Year awards which rightly recognises their incredible support for adults with care and support needs in our county.

"The dedication and commitment they have shown supporting some of our most vulnerable residents amid the challenges presented by Covid-19 is a fantastic achievement. I wish them all the very best of luck."

Peter Hay CBE, chair of the Social Work Awards, said: "As a charity, we are delighted to bring back the awards this year to shine a light on the inspirational achievements of an often-overlooked profession.

"Thank you to the people who took the time out of their day to nominate a friend, colleague, or team for an award this year. And, to all our finalists, congratulations. Being nominated for a national award, whilst supporting others to navigate through the turbulence caused by the pandemic, is a remarkable achievement of which you should be very proud."

Winners will be revealed at a special virtual awards ceremony broadcasted live from London on Wednesday 17 November.

For more information about the awards, visit www.socialworkawards.com