Former Head of Social Work awarded OBE for services to vulnerable people

Professor Suzy Braye, the former Head of Social Work and Social Care, at the University of Sussex is to be awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

The distinguished academic who led the Department from 2006 to 2010 is to receive the prestigious accolade for her ‘services to vulnerable people’.

The Emerita Professor, who started at Sussex in 2005 and left in 2015, is known for her research into adult safeguarding and self-neglect, social work law, and the contribution of e-learning in the social work curriculum

Professor Suzy Braye (pictured) said of the accolade: “I’m honoured by this recognition of the work that I’ve done in social work practice, education, research and policy; it’s a very special position to be in. But the honour is really shared by the people with whom I’ve worked – as colleagues, as students and as people who use services – whose strengths and capabilities I’ve been privileged to witness and have sometimes been able to support. So for all of us, I’m delighted and proud that social work is recognised for the difference that it makes.”

Professor Gillian Hampden-Thompson, Head of the School of Education and Social Work, said:”We are delighted Professor Braye is set to be made an OBE for her ‘services to vulnerable people’.

“Professor Braye is a distinguished academic who has made and continues to make a real difference through her dedication to some of the most vulnerable in our society. We here at Sussex are thrilled and immensely proud she is to be nationally recognised for this.”

Professor Braye, who is retired from the University, now acts as an independent researcher and consultant in adult safeguarding.