Just over 1,300 of the UK's most senior leaders in local authorities gathered yesterday at the Grosvenor House Hotel, for a day and evening of learning and sharing of best practice. The momentous day for local authorities started with the inaugural day time LGC Future Thinking and Best Practice Summit; exclusive to awards attendees, the summit offered a unique opportunity to hear first-hand from the councils shortlisted for Council of the Year and Most Improved Council as they made their final presentations live to the judges. Throughout the day, presentations from previous winners, a series of big issue future thinking discussions and organised networking sessions, promoted the sharing of essential best practice. After the learning sessions had taken place, the awards commenced. With a record breaking audience in the history of the sixteen year history of the awards, the winners of the LGC Awards 2012 were announced. Click here to see the full list. Emma Maier, LGC's editor, said of the award winners: "It is testament to the spirit, determination and commitment of local government, and the people who work in it, that despite this enormously challenging time, you have continued to innovate and achieve. To deliver first class local services." The Council of the Year Award went to Southend-on-Sea Borough Council. The judges said of the deserving winner: "The winning council has showed sustained progress over a number of years, passing clear milestones. It has gone beyond basic service provision, adding significant value and demonstrating visible impact for the community. Success has been driven by brave political leadership and strong managerial leadership. Results are underpinned by a strong vision, which is shared by staff and members. Judges were impressed by the council's ambition and real determination to change and shape the place for the better, and its investment in people, partnerships and leadership" We would like to congratulate all the winners and thank all those who entered. If you would like to be recognised for your best practice in the 2013 LGC Awards, click here to register your details and stay updated. |