Social workers learnt more about mental health and empowerment during sessions held last week.

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors and the Department of Child and Family Services hosted the event on March 27 and 28, in a culmination of celebrations for Social Work Month.

Vaughn Gay, a licensed counsellor and mental-health expert, led the workshops, which centred on the theme “Empowering social workers”.

He said that prioritising mental health was “the cornerstone of resilience, the fuel for growth and the pathway to true self-empowerment”.

Dr Gay added: “When you invest in your mental health, you're investing in a life of clarity, strength and purpose.”

Alfred Maybury, the Director of Child and Family Services, encouraged social workers to “remain empowered to be forever learners; education and exposure do not stop”.

He said: “We do not do this hard work in isolation. We are stronger and more effective as teams who take action together.”

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, called social workers the “fundamental support system for individuals and families navigating various challenges”.

She added: “Through compassionate guidance, counselling and practical assistance, social workers drive positive change, champion social justice and contribute to stronger, more cohesive communities.

“The workshops were focused on social workers with innovative strategies and tools to address the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals and families.

“It was heart-warming to see DCFS social workers, external stakeholders and community partners benefit from this experience.”

The minister thanked the island’s social workers and community partners “for their dedication to serving Bermuda’s most vulnerable populations”.