The hunt is on for the West Midlands' finest social workers.

The charity that organises the Social Worker of the Year Awards is searching for those who have gone above and beyond in their contributions to their community.

The awards are free to enter, and the public are urged to put forward nominations for social workers from the region whose dedication and support deserve acknowledgement.

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The awards present 18 categories in which social workers can be nominated, including 'Children’s Social Worker of the Year', 'Adult Social Worker of the Year' and 'Social Work Student of the Year'.

This year introduces two new award classifications: the 'Technology-Enabled Lives and Innovation in Practice Award' and 'Practitioner-led Research Award'.

Chair of the board of trustees for the Social Work Awards charity, Peter Hay CBE, said: "We are very pleased to share nominations for this year's Awards are now open, and encourage applications from all aspects of Social Work.

"In the current climate, it is more important than ever that we come together to recognise great practice and great people in the field of social work."

“If you have been supported by a social worker, who has gone above and beyond the call of duty, why not nominate them for an award and help them receive the recognition they deserve.”

Participants have until 12pm on Monday, June 3, to hand in their entries, while the winners' announcement is set for November at an awards ceremony in London.

Those who wish to submit a nomination or look into award sponsorship can visit the official awards website (www.socialworkawards.com).