AN inspirational social worker has received national recognition for her support of vulnerable children and families.

Amanda Beaufoy, who is profoundly deaf, was named Children’s Social Worker of the Year in a ceremony in London.

She was congratulated in a special video message by Edward Timpson MP, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children and Families, who commended all that she had achieved since qualifying as a so - cial worker in 2010.

Ms Beaufoy, of the Stourport and Bewdley team at Worcestershire County Council, said: “I’m very shocked. I wasn’t expecting this at all but it’s really lovely to have won.”

The judges described Ms Beaufoy’s entry as a “pleasure to read”. They also singled out her atten - tion to detail and dedication to the children and families she worked with.

James Rook, managing director of Sanctuary Social Care, said: “Amanda truly deserves this award. Her determi - nation to achieve fairness for every child she works with really shone through in her entry. She is a skilled social worker, who is not afraid to advocate the needs and rights of the children she works with.

“She is also committed to her professional development, actively seeking out opportunities to expand her skills and knowledge base. She thoroughly deserves for her contribution to the pro - fession to be recognised and celebrated.”

Ms Beaufoy was presented with her award by Beverley Williams, an independent social worker who founded the awards.

The Social Worker of the Year Awards are organised by Social Work Awards Ltd, a registered charity which aims to improve the understanding and reputation of the profession.