A social worker in Lochaber, described as a “breath of fresh air”, has been recognised with a top award.
Newly-qualified Ailsa Rainnie, a member of Highland Council’s family team in Fort William, has been named social worker of the year by the Scottish Association of Social Workers.
Ms Rainnie was put forward by Jo Jarvis-Jones, practice lead in the Fort William team, who praised her enthusiasm and passion for the job.
She said: “She is, quite simply, a ‘breath of fresh air’ to her colleagues in the office and the service users that she engages with. She is enthusiastic and always one of the first to come forward when there is a need for people in the team to step up to the mark.
“Ailsa goes out of her way to do little things for people that really make a difference and really seems to understand the need for families to find their own solutions. Her attitude to clients is clear yet non-judgmental. She is creative and keen to test out new ways of doing things that engage young people.
“We are so proud of her and this award is a real boost for the team.”
The social worker was delighted to be presented her accolade at the ceremony in Edinburgh, and thanked her mum and colleagues for their support.
Ms Rainnie said: “I can’t thank the Fort William team enough for continuing to help me learn and develop as a social worker. I am stunned to receive the award and grateful that my inspirational mum and colleagues, Betty Collings and Jo Jarvis-Jones, came along here to support me.
“I am lucky that I look forward to coming to work each day and working with inspiring young people and colleagues.”
One of the young people Ms Rainnie works with in Lochaber said: “After hearing a lot of horror stories from friends about their social workers, I was apprehensive about meeting Ailsa.
“But when I met her for the first time, I liked her straight away. She seemed down to earth, easy to talk to and very enthusiastic. The next few meetings with her further confirmed my first impression.
“However, as more and more happened in my life and I turned to Ailsa for help and support, I realised her qualities as a social worker, and a person, went so far beyond just friendly and understanding.
“She is an inspiration and if you go to her with any problem she will make you laugh, make you feel better about yourself and make you feel like you can cope.”
Bill Alexander, Highland Council’s Director of Care and Learning, said: “This is a tremendous award to receive and on behalf of everyone at Highland Council I would like to congratulate Ailsa.
“It is heartening to hear one of the young people Ailsa supports give such glowing praise about the positive effect working with her is having.
“This makes her a very worthy winner and we thank her for all her excellent work.”
