Rhoda Harper, a Social Worker with the Children and Families Team at Argyll and Bute Council has been named Social Worker of the Year.

Based in Oban, Rhoda was one of three social workers recognised when Scotland's Children and Young People Minister Aileen Campbell presented the Scottish Association of Social Workers (SASW) Social Work Awards.

They were presented by Ms Campbell at a special reception held in the Grassmarket Community Project, Edinburgh, to coincide with World Social Work Day 2014.

Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Children and Families, Councillor Mary Jean Devon, said, “We are very proud of Rhoda. This is a marvellous achievement and indicative of the high calibre of social work employees working in Argyll and Bute.

“Rhoda showed leadership and guidance when asked to take on the role of Acting Team Leader to help a neighbouring team through a period of major change, providing leadership and guidance at short notice. Her time there saw significant improvements in the quality of the service.

“I offer Rhoda my heart felt congratulations and wish her well in her continuing career with Argyll and Bute Council.”

The awards are held each year by the Scottish Association of Social Work to celebrate the people who work to help people to change their lives.

Aileen Campbell, Minister for Children and Young People, said, "Social work is truly life changing work and is one of the most demanding and complex tasks which we as a society ask any group of people to do on our behalf.

"All of those in the profession should be proud of the work they do. I congratulate all of the nominees and winners of the awards."

SASW Manager Trisha Hall said: "We are proud to host these awards as once again we have been humbled and impressed by what social workers are achieving in Scotland today.

"These people have influenced the lives of many and represent a profession which aims to do so in communities throughout the country. There are stories of people who did not want any contact with social work but are now telling others what a difference their relationship with the worker has made."

The winners will each receive a trophy to keep, a weekend break in Europe and a year’s free membership of SASW.