This year saw a record-breaking 106 nominations across the two award categories, recognising the dedication, professionalism and commitment of social work colleagues across Cygnet.
The shortlisted finalists were recognised not only for exemplifying Cygnet’s core values, but also for making a positive impact on their services and the individuals in our care through their sustained commitment and willingness to go above and beyond expectations.
Social Worker of the Year 2026
Winner: Abena Owusu, Cygnet Lodge Lewisham
A huge well done to our finalists:
- Afifa Ghouri, Cygnet Hospital Harrow
- Claire Lomas, Cygnet Hospital Clifton
- Paul Metcalfe, Cygnet Hospital Colchester
Social Work Assistant of the Year 2026
Winner: Samreen Akhtar, Cygnet Hospital Bierley
On receiving the award, Samreen said:
“Thank you so much. Receiving this award is an incredible honour. I absolutely love my role as a social work assistant because it gives me the chance to help people when they need it most. I am incredibly passionate about what I do because nothing is more rewarding than making a positive difference in people’s lives every day. Having once been in a position where I needed support myself, being able to give back means the world to me.
“Our entire social work team is absolutely fantastic, and I want to thank every single one of you for being such an amazing team. A massive thank you to management, Rachel and Michelle. Thank you for always giving me the opportunity to learn, push myself, and grow. And to Kate, who is so deeply missed by all of us. Thank you for your lasting impact, guidance, and belief in me. This award belongs to all of you!”
A huge well done to our finalists:
- Elaine Borthwick, Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke
- Misti Toms, Cygnet Hospital Harrow
- Tia Dougherty, Cygnet Hospital Godden Green
Congratulations to all of our finalists on this outstanding achievement. Selecting just four finalists and the winners in each category was a significant challenge for our judging panel.
Our Social Work Conference 2026
The awards formed part of our annual Social Work Conference, which explored a range of topics affecting social work across mental health and social care.
Shane Mills, Cygnet Group Executive Director of Nursing & Quality, and Paula Tappenden, Professional Lead for Social Work/Principal Social Worker, opened the conference. The event gives Cygnet’s wider Social Work team an opportunity to share knowledge and develop their work to ensure service users and residents have the best possible experience.
Dr Dimitra Lattas, Senior Lecturer, Social Work School of Law and Society, University of the Sunshine Coast, discussed International Models and Definitions of Forensic Social Work.
Professor Judy Laing, School International Director, University of Bristol, explored changes to the Mental Health Act.
Joanna Chambers, Head of Inpatient Social Work and Safeguarding Lead at Cygnet Sheffield, delivered a presentation on the Hybrid Model of PICU and LSU within CAMHS.
Thank you to everyone who supported this year’s Social Work Conference and Awards, including everyone who submitted a nomination, our judging panel, conference speakers and event team.