Oldham Council has launched a campaign inspired by a memorable Love Actually scene.

The council's recruitment drive for social workers takes its cue from the iconic "cue cards" scene in the film, where Andrew Lincoln's character professes his love to Keira Knightley's character.

The council's video features social worker Tracy Hynes, who delivers a heartfelt message about the reality some children and families face during the festive season.

She explains how some residents will not be having "the most wonderful time of year" due to their need for additional support, care, and compassion.

The campaign aims to highlight the difference social workers make to the lives of the borough's most vulnerable residents and encourages like-minded individuals to apply for social work positions.

The council is currently recruiting for various roles, from newly qualified social workers to team managers.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq  (Image: Oldham Council)

The campaign comes at a time when councils across the country are struggling to recruit new social workers, especially as children's services face huge demand for support.

The council has seen a significant increase in case referrals to its children's social care services during November and December, with a 33.7 per cent rise from 726 in 2022 to 971 in 2023.

Cllr Shaid Mushtaq, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Our social workers play a vital role in protecting the most vulnerable in Oldham and, as a service, they work incredibly hard to meet the needs of our residents.

"But as demand increases for our services like it is for many other councils across the country at this time, we need more people to help us make that same difference to people’s lives.

"Yes, our campaign takes inspiration from a well-known scene in a film, but much like the message in that scene, social work is all about love, care, and unwavering support."

 Julie Daniels  (Image: Oldham Council)

Ms Hynes, who started as a social worker at the council last year after completing the authority’s social work apprenticeship programme, said: "At times like these, social work can be challenging, but the rewards of seeing families thrive and children safe make every moment worthwhile.

"We have a fantastic team here and the support we get as social workers is great.

"There’s a lot of value placed on staff and the opportunities we get here with training and development really do make you feel valued and respected."

The council's children's services were rated 'Good' in all areas by Ofsted earlier this year, with the regulator praising the council's 'prompt' response to children at risk of significant harm and its efforts to ensure children 'benefit from good-quality help and support'.

Julie Daniels, strategic director for children’s services, said: "We’re committed to giving children and young people in Oldham the best possible start in life and our social workers play a vital role in this.

"We continually strive for excellence as a children’s services provider so if you have that same care and compassion to support our children and young people, we will really welcome your applications to become a social worker in Oldham."

The council offers a competitive package for new recruits.

For more information about working as a social worker in Oldham and to apply for one of the council’s current vacancies, visit www.leadingoldham.co.uk/childrens-services.