As we reflect on our time as Co-Chairs of the Principal Children and Families Social Worker Network, we are filled with a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the relationships we have built, the learning we have shared, and the collective commitment that unites us in our common purpose of improving the lives of children, young people, and families. 

We serve our communities with humility and purpose, and we begin by thanking the children, young people, families and carers who place their trust in us every day. Your voices, experiences and aspirations shape our practice, inspire our leadership, and remind us why this work matters.

Throughout our journey, we have been guided by values that are deeply important to both of us.

Louise's commitment to relational practice, co-production, and leading from the heart has consistently reinforced the importance of listening to and learning from those with lived experience, ensuring that children, families, and practitioners remain at the centre of everything we do. 

For Tapiwa, leadership has been shaped by the philosophy of Ubuntu, the belief that our humanity is interconnected and that we flourish through community, mutual support, and shared responsibility. The notion that 'it takes a village to raise a child' has been a constant reminder that none of us succeeds alone and that every individual has a contribution to make.

Together, these values have shaped our leadership of the network and strengthened our belief that relationships are the foundation on which meaningful and sustainable change is built.

Over the years, we have witnessed the very best of our profession. We have seen colleagues share their expertise generously, challenge one another thoughtfully, and create spaces where curiosity, reflection, and innovation can thrive. We have celebrated achievements together, navigated complexity together, and continued to champion excellence in social work practice. Through every conversation, regional meeting, learning event, and national discussion, the network has demonstrated the power of collective leadership. 

Most importantly, we have learned from you. Your wisdom, authenticity, courage, and unwavering commitment to children and families have inspired us and enriched our own practice and leadership. It has been a privilege to lead alongside such a talented and dedicated community of Principal Social Workers.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the many partners and stakeholders who have supported the network and the wider profession.

To Children's Ministers, including Janet Daby and Josh MacAlister, thank you for your engagement with the profession and your commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.

To Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families, thank you for your steadfast leadership, encouragement, and advocacy for practice excellence across the sector.

We are equally grateful to our colleagues across the Department for Education, Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS), British Association of Social Workers (BASW), Social Work England, Skills for Care, Staff College, Foundations, and CoramBAAF. Your partnership, challenge, expertise, and support have strengthened both the network and the wider social work profession.

We also want to recognise the invaluable contribution of research organisations, universities, the voluntary and community sector, people with lived experience, and the many sector leaders who continue to advance learning, innovation, and evidence-informed practice. Your collective efforts have helped shape a stronger, more connected profession.

A particularly heartfelt thank you goes to Research in Practice. Their unwavering commitment to the Principal Children and Families Social Worker Network has been exceptional. Beyond providing administrative support, they have invested in the growth and development of our network through mentoring, coaching, facilitation, learning opportunities, and high-quality continuing professional development. Their professionalism, expertise, and belief in the value of social work leadership have created countless opportunities for reflection, connection, and growth. The success of our network would not have been possible without their enduring partnership. 

As we look ahead, we do so with confidence and optimism. The relationships that have been forged across this network, the trust that has been built, and the generosity of spirit that continues to define our community will remain its greatest strengths.

Thank you for your friendship, your challenge, your leadership, and your support. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, your passion, and your commitment to making a difference.

Above all, thank you for reminding us that leadership is not about individuals. It is about relationships. It is about community. It is about what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose and a determination to create better futures for children and families.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Louise Spragg and Tapiwa Julius

Co-Chairs, Principal Children and Families Social Worker Network