Flintshire social worker honoured with British Empire Medal
An 81-year-old social worker from Flintshire has been awarded a British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours List.
Sheena Harrison has devoted her life to supporting vulnerable children and families, earning widespread respect for her dedication and compassion.
Described by colleagues as “outstanding” and “truly inspiring”, Sheena continues to work tirelessly to ensure children can remain in safe, stable foster homes rather than entering residential care or being moved within the care system.
Despite being diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia later in life, Sheena’s commitment has never wavered. Now in her ninth decade, she continues to provide therapeutic support to foster carers and young people, often responding to crises at any hour.
Over more than 20 years with NEWFoCaS, a specialist trauma-informed fostering agency, she has become a cornerstone of support — staying with distressed young people, visiting hospitals and police stations, and ensuring children are never left alone when they need help most.
Her work has transformed the lives of countless children who have experienced trauma, helping foster carers understand emotional needs and secure stable, long-term placements.
Having left school with no qualifications, Sheena returned to education in her late 40s, later gaining a degree in Sport, Education, Health and Social Policy and a postgraduate diploma in social work. It was during this time that she was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia.
Rather than holding her back, she developed creative ways of working that have become a hallmark of her practice. Her resilience and determination have earned her deep respect across social services, schools and the wider community.
Alongside her professional work, Sheena is chair of governors at Ysgol Merllyn, Bagillt, where she also serves on the safeguarding team. She has chaired the Friends of Bagillt Foreshore Group, helping protect and promote the area’s coastal heritage.
She continues to work, train, cover for colleagues, and help care for her great-grandchildren. Colleagues say there is “no substitute for her experience, dedication and boundless energy.”
The British Empire Medal recognises Sheena Harrison’s extraordinary service to children, families and the Flintshire community — a lifetime of compassion, courage and unwavering commitment.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
