The Outstanding Social Worker Award (OSWA) is the highest award conferred by the President of Singapore to acknowledge and recognise the outstanding contribution by dedicated social workers of Singapore; for their consistent and professional contribution towards the improvement of social service, healthcare or community sector.

OSWA 2008 is organised for the ninth year since 1998. During the first three years, the event was organised by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and subsequently by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). The event is jointly organised by NCSS and the Singapore Association of Social Workers (SASW) from 2007 onwards.

Two winners have been selected to receive the award in 2008. They will each receive a trophy and certificate of award, a Personal Development Grant of $5,000 sponsored by ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, and sponsorship for the Professional and Leadership Development training worth $24,000 and $1,000 cash award both from MCYS.

The Promising Social Worker Award (PSWA) was introduced in 2008 to accord recognition to up-and-coming social workers who are newer to the field and have made a difference in the lives of clients and the community alike.

One up-and-coming social worker was selected to receive the PSWA and he will receive a certificate of award, a Personal Development Grant of $4,000 sponsored by ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, and $1,000 cash award from MCYS.

The OSWA is open all Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents who are qualified social workers working in the social service, healthcare or community sector. They should have demonstrated commendable service to their clients, made valued contributions to the profession and are distinguished by a positive attitude and learning spirit.

Two social work professionals received the Outstanding Social Worker Award in 2008, for their keen dedication to their professions and to those whom they serve. They are Ms Long Chey May, Head, Medical Social Services, Singapore General Hospital and Mr Chan Whee Peng, Deputy Director, Service Development, National Council of Social Service.

Mr Lim Chong Chee Bryan, Senior Medical Social Worker, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, received the inaugural Promising Social Worker Award.

Outstanding Social Worker Award

Ms Long Chey May

Mr Chan Whee Peng

Promising Social Worker Award