A SOCIAL worker who supports social work students at Bradford College has been shortlisted for a major award in the field.

Karen Maude, 63, has been nominated for Practice Educator of the Year in the Social Worker of the Year Awards held next month.

She works with students who are on work placements, and also leads teaching sessions at the college, and was “honoured and bemused” at her nomination.

Ms Maude said: “It is a privilege to be working with the next generation of social workers who demonstrate respect for human rights and commitment to work alongside people.

“I believe that social work placements and the role of the off-site practice educator is vital in developing a student’s critical curiosity and reflection on their practice, making links with the theoretical base of social work, having a safe space in supervision to explore their value base and ensure the rights of the person they are working alongside are central to their practice.”

Brian Mitchell head of social care an community practice at Bradford College University Centre, added: “The awards are an opportunity to celebrate the brilliant work that social workers do every day of the week and the role of practice educator is vital to the future of the profession.

“Karen has supported many social work students at Bradford College, and is a practitioner this is highly valued, respected and essential to the enabling students to qualify.

“I am really chuffed that Karen has been recognised for the amazing support she offers to students.”

Ms Maude will find out if she has won at an exclusive ceremony being held in London in November. There are 93 finalists in 16 categories, and the winner of each category will then go forward to a winner of winners prize, with the top candidate being named the Social Worker of the Year 2018.