Sefton Council is thrilled to announce that two of its dedicated social workers have been shortlisted for the highly respected Social Worker of the Year Awards 2025.  

Mental Health Social Worker and Lifetime Achievement

Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) Joanne McMahon has been nominated in the Mental Health Social Worker of the Year category. And Mark Waterhouse, a Service Manager within Adult Social Care, has been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Outstanding contribution

Being on the shortlist shines a spotlight on Joanne and Mark’s outstanding contributions to both the profession and Sefton’s local community. 

25 years service

With 25 years of dedicated service at Sefton Council, Joanne McMahon has spent 21 years as an AMHP. She has made a significant contribution to AMHP rotas, ensuring the team can perform their statutory obligations. 

Over the years, Joanne has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, compassion, and professionalism in every aspect of her role. Her support for individuals facing mental health crises and their families has left a profound, lasting impact on countless lives across Sefton, as well as the wider health and social care services. 

Person-centred care

Her contributions have not only strengthened Sefton’s mental health services but have also enhanced the council's reputation as a provider of compassionate, effective, and person-centred care. 

“Go-to person”

Mark Waterhouse's career at Sefton Council spans numerous decades. Known as the “go-to person” for resolving complex cases with kindness, expertise, and professionalism. 

Over the years, Mark has made a lasting, positive impact on the lives of countless individuals across Sefton. His work ethic and person-centred approach have added a huge amount of value to Adult Social Care in Sefton.  

Ceremony in October

The winners across all 18 categories will be revealed at a special ceremony at The Midland Hotel in Manchester on Friday 17th October. 

Cllr Ian Moncur, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: 
"We're incredibly proud of Joanne and Mark for this well-deserved recognition. They truly embody the heart of Sefton’s social care values. Their work has made such a big impact on our residents, and we're delighted to see them celebrated on a national stage." 

Deborah Butcher, Executive Director for Adult Social Care, Health & Wellbeing, said: 
“We are so proud of Joanne and Mark for being shortlisted for these national awards. Their commitment, compassion and professionalism reflect the very best of social work in Sefton. This recognition is a testament to the vital work our social care teams play in supporting people every day.” 

Joanne McMahon shared her thoughts on being shortlisted: 
"It’s such an honour to be nominated. I’ve always felt privileged to support people during some of the most challenging times in their lives. This recognition is as much for my colleagues and our teams as it is for me, we all work together to make a real difference." 

Mark Waterhouse added: 
"I’m humbled by the Lifetime Achievement Award nomination. Social work has always been about making a difference, and I’ve had the privilege of working alongside so many wonderful colleagues in Sefton for so many years, who share the same values. This nomination is a reflection of not just my career but all of our incredible work at Sefton." 

To learn more about the Social Worker of the Year Awards, visit https://www.socialworkawards.com. 

Find out more about Adult Social Care in Sefton at www.sefton.gov.uk/adult-social-care/what-we-do