Celebrate the diverse tapestry of women making waves in social care with ACCA. From groundbreaking innovations to inspiring leadership journeys, we spotlight the trailblazers, change-makers, and visionaries shaping the future of care for vulnerable individuals and families.
Dame Philippa Russell DBE: A Champion for Carers
“We can’t change the world, but we can create a ripple that creates a stream, that creates a river, that creates a tsunami. Our stories are those ripples.” – Dame Philippa Russell DBE.
Dame Philippa Russell DBE, a stalwart advocate for carers and disabled individuals, has left an indelible mark on the national Carers Strategy in the UK. Her five decades of experience, including a seven-year tenure as Chair of the Standing Commission on Carers (SCOC), have provided invaluable insights and advice to Ministers and the Carers Strategy Cross-Government Programme Board.
Philippa’s dedication to promoting the interests of carers is deeply personal, rooted in her experience as a mother of a son with a learning disability. Her career, which includes influential roles such as Director of the Council for Disabled Children and Disability Policy Advisor to the National Children’s Bureau, has been instrumental in developing policies that acknowledge and support carers, ensuring their contributions are respected and valued.
Her advocacy extends beyond policy-making; Philippa has been a Think Local, Act Personal Partnership (TLAP) National Co-production Advisory Group member and the NHS Equality and Diversity Council. Her contributions to raising the profile of carers of all ages, including young carers, have been widely recognised and celebrated.
Sharon Allen OBE: Leading with Compassion and Innovation
Sharon Allen OBE, a qualified social worker with over thirty years of experience, has been a transformative leader in social care and supported housing. As the CEO of Skills for Care from 2010 to 2019, Sharon’s leadership was nothing short of remarkable, playing a crucial role in developing England’s adult social care workforce. Her commitment to high standards of care and professional development was unparalleled.
In 2019, Sharon became the CEO of Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, continuing her dedication to supporting vulnerable individuals. Her work has focused on care provision and addressing homelessness and housing issues. Sharon’s achievements were recognised in 2015 when she was awarded an OBE for her services to social care, homeless people, and housing.
Sharon’s influence extends beyond her organisational roles; she has been a member of various boards and committees, including the Think Local, Act Personal (TLAP) Programme Board. Her strategic vision and compassionate leadership have made a lasting impact on the social care sector, enhancing the lives of countless individuals and families.
Professor Sue Yeandle: Pioneering Research in Care and Caring
Professor Sue Yeandle, Director of the Centre for International Research on Care, Labour, and Equalities (CIRCLE) at the University of Sheffield, is a distinguished researcher focusing on the intersection of work and care. Her research examines how social and employment policies affect carers and the role of technology in supporting older and disabled people and their networks.
Sue has led numerous research projects, including the ESRC-funded Sustainable Care programme, and has published extensively on topics related to care, gender, and work. Her work has profoundly impacted understanding and improving care arrangements, both in the UK and internationally.
Sue’s commitment to the carers’ movement is reflected in her long-standing collaboration with Carers UK and as the founding Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Care and Caring. Her research advances academic knowledge and informs policies and practices that enhance the well-being of carers and those they support.
Conclusion
The contributions of Dame Philippa Russell DBE, Sharon Allen OBE, and Professor Sue Yeandle exemplify the incredible impact of women in social care. Their leadership, dedication, and innovative approaches have shaped the sector, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for carers and those in need. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the power of diverse voices and the importance of empowering women to lead and inspire change in social care.
