A ROSYTH woman who helped a family avoid being evicted from their home in a court battle has picked up a social work award.

Emma Hamilton (32) was highly commended in the Student Social Work of the Year awards and received a certificate from Scottish Minister for Children and Young People, Aileen Campbell.

She was recognised for her outstanding work while on placement with an adult care team at Fife Council and took on several challenging cases, including a family about to be evicted.

Emma, who is in the final year of her MSc in Social Work Studies at Stirling University, was able to help the family represent themselves in court and avoid losing their home.

A former Dunfermline High pupil, she has worked in the social care sector for 16 years, helping people with varied and complex needs including children, older people and people with disabilities.

She said, “I am passionate about helping people and although social work is at times challenging, it is also very rewarding when you see the difference that you can make to people and their lives.

“I was fortunate to have had fantastic support from everyone involved in my placement at Fife Council including my tutor, practice teacher, link worker and the team I was placed in.

“Through their support, I was able to develop my skills and confidence and I look forward to beginning my career as a qualified social worker.” The awards were held by the Scottish Association of Social Work and Emma received her accolade at a special ceremony in Edinburgh.

The minister said, “Social work is truly life-changing work and is one of the most demanding and complex tasks which we as a society ask any group of people to do on our behalf. All of those in the profession should be proud of the work they do. I congratulate all of the nominees and winners of the awards.”