A social worker in the Department of Child and Family Services received January’s Public Service Excellence Award.

David Burt recognised Shawnae Brangman for her contributions to the department’s foster-care team last week.

Ms Brangman, who works with both children and adults with diverse needs, was nominated for the monthly award by a colleague for working through several sensitive matters “with grace and compassion, going above and beyond to provide hands-on support to clients in moments of crisis”, particularly over the past two months.

The nomination added: “Her dedication to the department saw her working long hours on a variety of high-risk cases and pushing through overwhelming demands.

“She made every effort to ensure her caseload would be manageable for the team during a planned leave period, despite narrow time constraints to fulfil all her responsibilities.”

Ms Brangman said: “It’s a great feeling to be recognised and to know that there are people who appreciate the work we do.”

The Premier thanked Ms Brangman for her service and highlighted her “commitment to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and stability of every child in her caseload.

“She is an exemplary ambassador of compassion and social justice and is most deserving of this award,” Mr Burt added.

Cherie-Lynn Whitter, the head of the Public Service, also thanked Ms Brangman for her resilience throughout a difficult time in her department and for tirelessly supporting her clients.

She said: “Her empathytowards the families in her portfolio and her team members is admirable. We wish her continued success and recognition throughout her career in Public Service.”

The Public Service Excellence Awards recognises an individual or group of public officers who have shown “admirable service delivery” over a 60-day period.