Speaking before the event, Ms Boyle, a recently retired WHSCT Social Worker, said: “There has never been a more important time to ‘stand up for social work’. Social Workers are a crucial part of the health and social services here at a time of great change and challenge.
“I commend the social workers throughout East Derry, who work tirelessly every day to assist vulnerable children, young people, adults and older people.
“We have the second highest proportion of older people in the area in Northern Ireland in this area. Social workers have an essential role in contributing to the challenges of this in terms of hospital and community support and in devising strategies to address the needs of our growing population.
“Alliance believes social workers should be appropriately funded to continue their important work protecting a range of vulnerable groups.”