New social work team meet at Downshire Hall

New social work team meet at Downshire Hall

1 October 2025

NEWLY qualified social workers who will be working across the South Eastern Trust area gathered at the Downshire Hospital’s Great Hall in Downpatrick recently.

Billed as a “morning of celebration and connection”, the event offered a meaningful start for the newest members of the health trust’s social work teams, providing an opportunity to celebrate achievements, build connections and reinforce the organisation’s commitment to supporting their professional development.

The health trust’s Director of Children’s Services and Executive Director of Social Work, Lyn Preece, welcomed the new staff and said she was “really, really proud” to be a social worker. 

“No matter where you work, do not underestimate the impact you have on the families you support,” she continued.

“You are making a difference every day. You are at the forefront of that impact and we are really looking forward to working with you. Congratulations on getting here.”

Mental health social worker, Richard Ireland — who is based at the health trust’s Finneston House’s community rehab team in Downpatrick — described the role as his “dream job”.

He continued: “I was a joiner by trade and went back to school eight years ago.

“I did my English, Maths and Science, followed by an Access course before university. It was a long haul with evening and weekend study, so now I am over the moon to be doing my dream job as a social worker.”

Francesca Quattromano, who is based in Lisburn, shared her motivation for joining the health trust’s social work team.

“I have always wanted to work with children; to be involved in their lives and support their families,” she said.

“My first placement was with older people, which I loved, but I wanted a more hands-on role with children. This is such a welcoming environment and it is great to see both new and familiar faces here at Downshire.

Francesca added: “The event is informal and a lovely chance to connect with colleagues.”

Principal social worker, Jillian Morris, said the Great Hall event brought newly qualified social workers together to learn about the supports available to them and to build that sense of belonging within the Trust. 

“All of our new social workers have worked incredibly hard to get here, and it is excellent to see so many attending today,” she added.