Redbridge Social Workers Shine at National Awards
Published: 29 October 2025
Redbridge Social Workers Shine at National Awards
Redbridge Council is celebrating a major triumph at the prestigious Social Worker of the Year Awards, held recently in Manchester, where two outstanding members of its Reach Out team were honoured for their exceptional contributions to social care.
Sophia Hussain was named Adults Social Worker of the Year and went on to receive the evening’s highest accolade: Overall Social Worker of the Year 2025. Her expertise in Honour-Based Abuse—particularly around forced marriage and HBV—has made her an invaluable asset to the service. Sophia’s deep cultural understanding and exceptional engagement skills have transformed support for survivors and set a benchmark for best practice.
Paula Purcell received the Silver Award for Practice Leadership and Management in children’s social care. Renowned for her ability to reach and support survivors who are often considered unreachable, Paula leads with compassion and clarity. She regularly conducts case consultations and joint visits, modelling the Safe and Together practice approach to empower fellow social workers and improve outcomes for families.
Sophia Hussain shared her reflections on the award. Sophia said: “I’m deeply honoured to be named Overall Social Worker of the Year 2025. My time at Reach Out has been transformative—working with complex cases and vulnerable survivors has shaped my practice in profound ways. The hands-on, multi-agency approach has deepened my understanding of safeguarding, and I’m proud to be part of such a compassionate, skilled team. This award reflects the incredible work we do together."
Paula Purcell also expressed her gratitude: Paul said: “Being nominated was an honour, but winning the Silver Award was the highlight of my career. I’m proud to lead a team whose work truly transforms the lives of domestic abuse survivors. The only thing better than receiving my award was witnessing Sophia Hussain win two—an unforgettable and emotional moment.”
Cllr Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, said: “Sophia and Paula represent the very best of Redbridge—compassionate, skilled, and deeply committed to supporting our most vulnerable residents. Their national recognition is a testament to the incredible work happening across our borough, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.”
Reach Out is Redbridge Council’s in-house domestic abuse support service. It provides confidential assistance to anyone aged 16 or over in the borough who is experiencing—or at risk of—domestic abuse. The service also supports individuals concerned about their own behaviour and wanting to change.
