Stunning new mural unveiled to celebrate the key role of Portsmouth social workers during the pandemic

The 360-degree tribute has been painted inside the hall at the Charles Dickens Centre, in Landport. by city artists My Dog Sighs and Fark and was revealed today as part of World Social Care Day.

Throughout the pandemic, social workers have supported vulnerable children and adults to make sure they have the support they needed to cope with lockdown.

Councillor Suzy Horton, cabinet member for children, families and education at Portsmouth City Council, said: ‘From the very beginning, we have worked with colleagues and service users on what a mural could look like. Not only does it celebrate the contribution social workers have made in our city but the importance of working together to support the most vulnerable in our society.’

The pair of artists behind the mural attended a virtual information event with care leavers and social workers to hear their stories, which inspired the final design of the painting.

Themes of ‘togetherness’ and ‘overcoming adversity’ both feature as part of the work, which is split into a number of different designs.

Sarah Daly, deputy director for children and families at the city council, was inspired by the mural – and by her team’s efforts.

She added: ‘The theme of togetherness resonates with colleagues and partner organisations across Portsmouth as we continue to support local residents when they need us most.

‘The mural is a visual representation of social solidarity and the need for communities to work together to improve outcomes for all.’

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Councillor Matthew Winnington, the council's health, wellbeing and social care boss, paid tribute to the city’s social work team.

‘Over the past year during the pandemic, colleagues have shown how critically important they are to protect and support the most vulnerable people locally,’ he added.

‘The pandemic has shown the need to build strong relationships. The mural reminds us that togetherness and overcoming adversity go hand in hand.’

Children's social care worker Karley Middleton was delighted to be among those recognised for their efforts today.

She added: ‘World Social Work Day is a celebration of our profession as well as recognising the hard work and dedication that goes into making sure families feel connected. I feel very privileged to be part of their world and support them when they need it most.’

Adult social care worker Natasha Fairclough was touched by the tribute and said becoming a social worker had been the best decision of her life.

‘I originally trained as a hairdresser. I discovered that I didn't like doing people's hair but I liked talking to them. So I went back to college to study social work - it's been the best decision I have ever made,’ she said.

People are encouraged to take part in World Social Work Day with their own messages of support on social media using the hashtag #WSWDPortsmouth.

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