CDU lecturer recognised in NT Social Worker of the Year

A Charles Darwin University (CDU) social work lecturer has been recognised in the 2022 Mary Moylan NT Social Worker of the Year Award.

Hannah Taino-Spick, a lecturer in social work and a PhD candidate at the CDU College of Health and Human Sciences, have been named as a finalist for the prestigious award.

The annual award is held as part of World Social Work Day celebration and is an initiative of the NT Branch of the Australian Association of Social Workers.

Ms Taino-Spick is recognised for her work in canine-assisted services, Good Dog, and her innovative approach to human services.

She is also focused on supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans, having been a veteran herself.

“I’m grateful to be recognised as a finalist for this prestigious award and am honoured to have stood alongside fellow finalists doing incredible work throughout the NT,” Ms Taino-Spick said.

“I place high value on innovative practice as well as introducing this type of safe and ethical practice with new upcoming social workers.” 

Good Dog featuring therapy dogs Roxy, Quinton and Sugar have been going from schools to court rooms to support the emotional wellbeing of children and adults.

The therapy dogs support student wellbeing at Leanyer School where student children read to them to boost their confidence and literacy.

The pups are also involved in supporting young people in the justice system; including at court, Supported Youth Bail Accommodation and at Don Dale Youth Detention Centre.

The award was presented at the Government House by Northern Territory Administrator the Hon Vicki O’Halloran.