Lynda Hughes

Lynda Hughes is a Lecturer in Social Work and Programme Manager for the BA (Hons) Social Work Apprenticeship Degree at the University of Sheffield's School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations. With over 30 years of social work experience, she specializes in child protection, adoption, and workforce development. Her career spans roles in statutory childcare services, social work management, and academic teaching.

Lynda holds qualifications including a BA (Hons), CQSW, and a Diploma in Management Studies, alongside the Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). Her teaching focuses on integrating practice with theory, emphasizing blended and online learning approaches to enhance accessibility.

Her research interests include adoption support systems and permanency planning for children. She has conducted studies on Derbyshire's social services responses to permanency and adoption support (2002-2004). Lynda is a member of the Association of Child Protection Professionals and a Registered Social Worker.

Professionally, she has led Sheffield City Council’s ASYE (Assessed and Supported Year in Employment) program for newly qualified social workers and contributed to the South Yorkshire Teaching Partnership’s curriculum development. She also trained social workers through the Department of Education-funded Practice Supervisor Development Programme.