Memorable Love Actually scene inspires council’s social work recruitment efforts

In a video that pays homage to the moment actor Andrew Lincoln confesses his love to on-screen crush Juliet (Keira Knightley), the local authority has taken this opportunity to send a very important and emotive message of its own. 

Aimed at people with an interest in children’s social care, the council’s message sees local social worker Tracy Hynes start by explaining the unfortunate reality of how some children and their families won’t be having ‘the most wonderful time of year’ this winter.  

This is because some residents require additional support, care and compassion to help them through the difficult situations they are currently facing. 

However, with the help of local social workers, Oldham Council is working hard to make a difference to the lives of the borough’s most vulnerable and with the help of like-minded applicants, even more people can be given the greatest gift of care and support this winter. 

Viewers are then encouraged to ‘Choose Oldham’ and apply online to the council’s current social work-related vacancies, including positions from Newly Qualified Social Worker to Team Manager. 

The motive behind this campaign aims to address one of the biggest issues councils, like Oldham, are currently facing to recruit new social workers – especially at a time when children’s services across the country are experiencing huge demand for support. 

With winter likely to increase those pressures even further, due to prevalent cases linked with homelessness, substance abuse, domestic and child abuse, and mental health crises, councils are in urgent need of extra numbers in their workforce. 

Last year, case referrals to Oldham Council’s Children Social Care Services during November and December increased by 33.7% (971) compared with same period for 2022 (726). 

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq

Councillor Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Our social workers play a vital role in protecting the most vulnerable in Oldham and, as a service, they work incredibly hard to meet the needs of our residents. 

“But as demand for our services increases, like it is for many other councils across the country at this time, we need more people to help us make that same difference to people’s lives. 

“Yes, our campaign takes inspiration from a well-known scene in a film, but much like the message in that scene, social work is all about love, care, and unwavering support.  

“That’s why we hope our campaign resonates with those who have the skills and passion to help transform people’s lives and it encourages them to Choose Oldham.”

The video campaign will be rolled out throughout November and December to offer a heartfelt reminder of the values of community, care, and kindness at this time of year. 

Tracy, who first started as a social worker at Oldham Council in 2023 after completing the authority’s social work apprenticeship programme, said: “At times like these, social work can be challenging, but the rewards of seeing families thrive and children safe make every moment worthwhile. 

“We have a fantastic team here and the support we get as social workers is great. There’s a lot of value placed on staff and the opportunities we get here with training and development really do make you feel valued and respected. 

“I’m a resident of Oldham as well so I have quite a distinct loyalty to the town but not just that, as a social worker I love working here, and I enjoy the people I work with, it’s just a really good place to be.” 

Julie Daniels, Strategic Director for Children’s Services, added: “We’re committed to giving children and young people in Oldham the best possible start in life and our social workers play a vital role in this, as recognised by Ofsted earlier this year when our Children’s Services were rated ‘Good’ in all areas.

“We continually strive for excellence as a Children’s Services provider so if you have that same care and compassion to support our children and young people, we will really welcome your applications to become a social worker in Oldham.”

Within Oldham Council’s recent Ofsted report, the council received praise for its ‘prompt’ response to children at risk of significant harm.  

The regulator also acknowledged the authority’s efforts to ensure children ‘benefit from good-quality help and support’. You can read Oldham’s full report here.  

With a competitive package in place for new recruits, including high-quality learning and development opportunities, great staff benefits, the offer of flexible and hybrid working and a clear career progression ladder, Oldham is a good place to work. 

If you would like to know more about working as a social worker in Oldham and would like to apply for one of the council’s current vaccines, visit www.leadingoldham.co.uk/childrens-services for more information.  

Alternatively, you can email Oldham’s Social Work Academy at [email protected] if you have any further questions.