WARRINGTON'S 'committed' social care workforce were hailed on World Social Work Day yesterday, Tuesday.

The annual event offers the opportunity to celebrate the work of social workers and the 'important contribution' made by them while helping residents in need.

This year's theme was 'promoting community and environmental sustainability'.

Cllr Pat Wright, executive board member for statutory health and adult social care, said: "I would like to thank staff for their professionalism and celebrate the beneficial outcomes they achieve for people in our community, often in the most difficult circumstances."

Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for children’s services, said: “Our social care workforce are genuinely committed to protecting vulnerable people from harm or abuse, helping people to live independently and acting as advocates for those who need support.

"They make a huge difference, right across our programmes of care, from older people, adults, children, to those with mental health issues or physical and learning disabilities, in both hospital or community settings."