Salford adult social care worker recognised with national learning award

Stacy McKeown was presented the Patron's Award by Jeremy Moore CB

A Salford adult social care worker whose passage from unemployment to university graduate has inspired others and has been named a winner at the 2026 ‘Get the Nation Learning’ awards. 

Stacy McKeown, from Lower Broughton, has won the prestigious ‘Patron's Award’, which celebrates individuals whose learning journey demonstrates the life-changing power of education and personal development.  

The award recognises Stacy's remarkable 13-year journey, which began when she secured a placement through the Future Jobs Fund programme after being unemployed and uncertain about her future. The Future Jobs Fund was a UK Government programme introduced following the 2008 financial crisis to help unemployed young people gain paid work experience, develop skills and move into sustainable employment.

It was through a six-month placement with Salford City Council that Stacy first discovered her potential and began the learning journey that would ultimately lead to a career in social work. 

Stacy has since progressed through a range of roles within adult social care while balancing family life and overcoming personal challenges. She later took on a social work degree apprenticeship and this year graduated with a 2:1 honours degree, officially qualifying as a social worker.  

Her achievement comes at an important time for adult social care in Salford, with services that had been commissioned to other organisations transferring back to Salford City Council this year. 

Councillor Michele Barnes, Lead Member for Skills, Work, Workforce and Industrial Relations, said: 

Stacy's story is a powerful example of how learning can transform lives. Her determination to help others embodies everything this award stands for. We are incredibly proud that her achievements have been recognised on a national stage, and we hope her journey inspires others across Salford to believe in their own potential." 

Throughout her journey, Stacy has used her lived experience to support others, helping families navigate difficult times with her empathy and understanding. Her national award win builds on previous success at Salford City Council’s ‘Adult Learner’ awards in 2025, where she received the ‘Mike Thorpe Transformation’ award.

 

Stacy winning the Mike Thorpe Transformation Award at the 2025 Get Salford Learning Adult Learner Awards

Speaking about her awards, Stacy said: 

Winning both awards feels a bit unreal, if I'm honest. I still catch myself thinking, ‘who do I think I am?’ because I never expected my journey to lead here. But it's made me realise how much I've grown in confidence and how far I've come, even becoming someone others look to for leadership. I'm incredibly grateful, very proud, and still slightly convinced they've got the wrong person!” 

The Get the Nation Learning campaign, led by Learning and Work Institute, aims to make and win the case for lifelong learning. The campaign has over 230 supporters on board, including Age UK, the National Housing Federation and the British Council. 

The Get the Nation Learning Awards are the biggest celebration of lifelong learning in England. They shine a light on people and organisations getting the nation learning and recognise examples of adult learning that support healthier futures, stronger communities, more opportunities, regional growth, and richer lives. The awards take place during Get the Nation Learning Week, when supporters can showcase what they do in support of lifelong learning and strengthen their commitment to building a future where everyone can learn throughout life. 

Salford City Council is committed to supporting lifelong learning opportunities that help residents develop skills, gain qualifications and realise their ambitions.