Six new social workers in city

SIX new social workers have started work at Nottingham City Council.

The authority now employs 90 social workers after extra investment in children's services in this year's budget.

A team of nine contact workers have also been deployed across the city to support them.

The extra posts were created to cope with an increase in referrals to children's services after the Baby P case in Haringey, London, last year.

But officials say recruitment has been difficult because of the national shortage of social workers.

Councillor David Mellen, portfolio holder for children's services, said: "We value the hard work and dedication of all our social workers and the contribution of all professionals in safeguarding children.

"This additional investment will allow us to provide a much enhanced service so we can deliver the best possible care to young people, children and families in the city."

Mr Mellen said the council was still recruiting and would like to hear from anyone interested in social work as a career.

To find out more visit www.socialworkcareers.co.uk or www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/social-work/becoming-a-social-worker.