As we come to the end of 2022, I'd like to thank you all for your dedication to delivering high quality services and supporting our local communities.
This past year has again been one that's brought us a considerable amount of change. Although the effects of the pandemic have lessened, we're now facing new challenges including a cost-of-living crisis which will be having an impact on many of you, as well as the people you work with.
I know that responding to these challenges, alongside the budget pressures we're facing will not be easy, but I also know that we have a great team here at Derbyshire County Council. We've shown that we're adaptable, willing to try new solutions and make the most of opportunities and that we put Derbyshire residents at the heart of everything we do.
I enjoyed the opportunity last week to speak directly to some of you and express my thanks during Thank You Week. It was fantastic to see so many colleagues taking the time to share messages of thanks with each other, including on our message board which received over 200 messages. If you couldn't attend the sessions, you can watch a recording at a time to suit you.
Thank You Week is a great reminder of the importance of taking time to recognise the efforts and achievements of others, however, it's not something we should be saving just for Thank You Week. If you'd like some ideas and suggestions for keeping this going all year round, please have a look at our new recognition toolkit.
If you were able to join one of my Thank You Week drop in sessions you will have heard me mention our new Our Derbyshire Awards. These awards are a celebration of our people and I'm very much looking forward to having the opportunity to formally recognise your achievements. This will be a chance for you to nominate individual colleagues or teams who have gone above and beyond to support the people of Derbyshire and shown a commitment to our values. Please take the time to find out more about the Our Derbyshire Awards and consider who you could put forward when the nomination window opens on Monday 9 January 2023.
I hope that you're able to enjoy some time off over the festive period but I know many of you will be at work continuing to keep vital services running.
If you're working or on standby over Christmas then I thank you for your commitment to Derbyshire residents.
Christmas holidays can be a difficult time for those who don't have friends and family around them. If you feel that you need some support or someone to talk to, please remember that there is a range of wellbeing support available.
I wish you all a merry Christmas and a very happy new year.