As Halloween approaches, we’ve been chatting about all the ghoulish images we attach to the holiday—a key one being witches! This got us thinking about the rich history surrounding witches and the accused women.
It’s important to note that we didn’t hang witches… we hung women.
From there, we started discussing all the women in social care who are undoubtedly worth celebrating. Powerful women need recognition!
Let’s pivot the narrative and celebrate the remarkable women in social work who continue to make transformative impacts in the lives of individuals and communities. Their dedication, innovation, and compassionate leadership deserve recognition, mainly as we reflect on their invaluable contributions.
Dame Philippa Russell DBE: A Champion for Carers
Dame Philippa Russell has been a beacon of hope and change for carers and disabled individuals across the UK. With a career spanning over 50 years, her advocacy is deeply personal, rooted in her experience as a mother of a son with a learning disability. Philippa’s influential role as Chair of the Standing Commission on Carers (SCOC) has allowed her to provide invaluable insights that have shaped national policy and the Carers Strategy in the UK.
Philippa’s commitment goes beyond mere advocacy; she actively engages with policymakers, ensuring that carers’ voices resonate in decisions that affect them. As a member of several significant committees, including the NHS Equality and Diversity Council, she amplifies the importance of recognising and supporting all carers. Her legacy, which continues to inspire new social workers, is a testament to the long-term impact of her work.
Sharon Allen OBE: Leading with Compassion and Innovation
With over three decades of experience in social care, Sharon Allen OBE has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead with heart and innovation. As the former CEO of Skills for Care, her unique blend of compassion and innovation played a pivotal role in shaping the adult social care workforce, setting standards that prioritise quality and compassion in care delivery.
As CEO of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, Sharon continues her mission to support vulnerable individuals, addressing critical issues such as homelessness and housing insecurity. Recognised for her remarkable contributions to social care, Sharon was awarded an OBE for her tireless efforts. Her leadership philosophy emphasises collaboration and community, encouraging social workers to build connections that lead to sustainable solutions for the people they serve.
Professor Sue Yeandle: Pioneering Research in Care and Caring
Professor Sue Yeandle stands at the forefront of research into care and its implications for society. As the Director of the Centre for International Research on Care, Labour, and Equalities (CIRCLE) at the University of Sheffield, Sue’s work focuses on how social and employment policies shape the care landscape. Her research highlights the significance of technology in supporting older and disabled individuals, ensuring they receive the care they need while enhancing their independence.
Through projects like the Sustainable Care programme, Sue has illuminated the challenges and opportunities within the caregiving sector. Her collaborations with organisations such as Carers UK ensure that her research directly informs policies and practices, benefiting carers and those they care for. As a founding editor of the International Journal of Care and Caring, her contributions to academic discourse further enrich our understanding of care dynamics in contemporary society.
Conclusion: Honoring the Legacy of Women in Social Care
This Halloween, while we enjoy the festivities, let’s take a moment to honour the incredible contributions of women like Dame Philippa Russell, Sharon Allen, and Professor Sue Yeandle. These women embody the spirit of empowerment, resilience, and change in social care, echoing our values at AACA. Their legacies remind us of the strength found in community, compassion, and leadership.
As we celebrate their achievements, we also commit to supporting future generations of women in social work—empowering them to continue nurturing and transforming lives.
