Several local social workers will be honoured by their peers this week for their contributions to their profession.

The recipients will be announced Wednesday at a special ceremony attended by local dignitaries.

Social worker Lyndon Jackson, of Probation Services, said the move was inspired by the 100th Anniversary of the American National Association of Social Workers.

"We decided to see what we could do to honour local social workers,'' he explained. "We looked back to see who had contributed to the profession since the 1960's. After we selected some individuals we went out, interviewed them and did up biographies on them.'' Mr. Jackson promised that the honourees, to be named this Wednesday at 10 a.m.

at the Bank of Bermuda on Church Street, would be well known in the community.

And the biographic displays of the individuals will remain on display at the bank for two days after the ceremony, to allow as many people as possible a chance to view the presentation.

"They may not necessarily be social workers,'' he hinted. "Back then they did not necessarily consider themselves social workers and the areas that they dealt with was not considered social work -- but now it is.

"Before 1968, social work was done by a number of organisations, the Committee of 25, the Salvation Army, Probation Services and the Lady Cubitt Compassionate Association.'' Mr. Jackson also pointed out that it took many years for social work to evolve into a disciplined profession.

"It became formalised in 1972 with the development of Social Services,'' he added. "Initially the social workers were from the UK and the US, but over time they were replaced by locals who went abroad for training.'' Currently there are 54 social workers, possessing either a Bachelors degree and/or a Masters degree, in Bermuda.

In addition to Wednesday's presentation, the recipients will also be honoured at a luncheon on October 25 at the Surf Club on Front Street. The group will be presented with certificates in recognition of their contribution to the profession.

Anyone interested in attending the luncheon should call Jackie Basden at 236-2345 (the medical-social work department) for tickets.