Working within local authority for all of her career, Alaw Pierce has spent 40 years helping those within North Wales through the many important roles she has undertaken.
After gaining a degree at Bangor University she went on to gain her Certificate Of Qualification In Social Work and qualified as a Social Worker in 1983.
Starting as a Social Worker at Gwynedd Council in October 1983, Alaw moved to work at the then Clwyd County Council in 1989.
Alaw worked as a Social Worker for almost 11 years, working with older people and people with physical disabilities, before going on to work in the mental health field and then within community hospitals.
She then took on the role of Social Work Team Manager at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and started working for Denbighshire County Council officially when the Local Government reorganisation happened in 1996.
In 2000, she moved out of the hospital setting to become a Team Manager for a learning disability and access and intake team in Rhyl.
Serving as a Team Manager in various roles within the Authority for 16 years, Alaw became a Service Manager in 2011, and has now served 13 years in this role. Alaw will be officially retiring in the next coming months.
Speaking on her career, Alaw said:
“I wanted to help people make a difference in their lives, that’s why I became a Social Worker in the first place. The role has changed massively since I started, however I think the core principles remain the same.
It’s a wonderful job, I’ve enjoyed each role that I’ve done, I don’t think I would want to do anything else. If I was given my time over again, I would certainly be working in Social Work.
There are career progression opportunities within the role, when I came into Social Work, I had no interest in becoming a manager. But if I’m honest I’ve enjoyed the experience of being a manager, just as much as I have enjoyed being a Social Worker. Not everyone will want to take that path, but there are different levels to working within Social Care.
It’s been a great career, and I can look back on it with fond memories. I’ve enjoyed the privilege of people allowing me into their lives. I’ve met some lovely people during the course of my career and worked with brilliant colleagues.”
Ann Lloyd, Head of Adult Social Care and Homelessness said:
“Throughout her time in Denbighshire Alaw has made a significant difference to the lives of people she has touched and has influenced and shaped the services we deliver not only within this Local Authority but across North Wales.
Alaw is a shining example of the career that can be achieved as a Social Worker and within Social Care services. We all wish her a long, healthy and fulfilled retirement.”
Councillor Elen Heaton, Lead Member for Health and Social Care said:
“Alaw’s retirement after 40 years in social work symbolises a lifetime commitment to improving the lives of others. Her career has been devoted to helping those around her, an extremely commendable cause.
Alaw has been an invaluable asset to the Council, and will be sorely missed. I wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.”