Shropshire Council’s principal social worker wins top award at local government Oscars

Shropshire Council celebrated success at the prestigious Local Government Chronicle (LGC) awards where Lorraine Currie, who was previously Acting Principal Social Worker and Professional Lead for Mental Capacity Act, was crowned overall national winner for Outstanding Individual Contribution.

Lorraine Currie receives her Outstanding Individual Contribution LGC Award. Simon Sadek ©Paparazzi VIP Photography – www.paparazzivip.com – info@paparazzivip.com

Lorraine was recognised for the instrumental role she has played in protecting the county’s communities since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Through her expertise and truly collaborative approach, she has been a fundamental member of the adult social care team during the pandemic. Lorraine provided and shaped far-reaching support to local people and empowered colleagues on the ground to enhance support during the most challenging times.

After excelling during the rigorous judging process, Lorraine emerged as the winner of the Outstanding Individual Contribution. The judges said Lorraine is a remarkable person, whose tenacity has and will have a lasting impact. Drawing on her own personal experience, she has had a transformative effect by empowering those otherwise wouldn’t have had a voice.

After collecting her award from the prestigious ceremony at Grosvenor House, London, Lorraine said:-

“I was delighted to be nominated for this award, then I was amazed to be shortlisted, so you can imagine I was absolutely stunned to win. I’ve never known a moment like it, to hear your name called when there were so many worthy entries. I’m proud to have won this award for myself and for Shropshire Council. It’s great to work for a council that recognises the importance of working together with people who we provide services for.”

Lorraine’s colleagues and those who she supports countywide are delighted that her commitment and sheer hard work have been recognised. 

Andy Begley, Shropshire Council’s chief executive, said:-

“We are all immensely proud of Lorraine. I cannot overstate the significance of this prestigious award. It is a testament to her dedication, hard work and natural ability to bring teams and individuals together to deliver inspirational work on a local and national level.”

Tanya Miles, executive director of people, added:-

“I am delighted to see Lorraine’s commitment and passion recognised at a national level. It is a testament to the way she helps shape and deliver vital services that transforms the lives of people across Shropshire. Her invaluable insight and ability to put personal experiences at the fore of strategic planning is to be truly admired.

“The last 18 months have been incredibly challenging, and Lorraine has been instrumental in adapting the services we provide in these times of change. She has not only approached challenges head on; she has recognised and developed opportunities for best practice and driven them forward with care and sensitivity to maximise the positive effects on others. Lorraine’s award is thoroughly well deserved.”

The LGC Awards see entries from council teams across the UK judged by other councils’ senior officers, with the aim being to promote new innovation that can inspire other councils to improve their own services.

LGC editor Nick Golding said:-

“The dedication of councils to supporting their local populations has never been in doubt, but they have stepped up to a new level over the course of the pandemic as they innovated to keep residents safe and well.

“To win an LGC Award is the ultimate symbol of the brilliance of council teams – we should be grateful for their work, particularly in difficult times.”