DebSolomon, Betsy Byrne and Mya Munro
Nominated by: Gill Ashton
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: This is actually three individuals but they're not a 'team' - Deb Solomon, Betsy Byrne and MyaMunro. They are some of the people who head up the support network for disability and neurodiversity. (If that was a team I would be nominating it too!). As an AuDHD-er I have been struggling with various work issues and just knowing that people are there and will respond has been absolutely invaluable. Their patience, good humour and making themselves available during their busy weeks is vastly appreciated by many of us. They are making a huge difference to colleagues' lives.
Enhanced Support Team
Nominated by: Claire Thomas
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Enhanced Support Team (EST) for their outstanding contribution to supporting some of Derbyshire’s most vulnerable residents—adults with learning disabilities, autism, or both—whose complex needs and behaviours often place them at risk of hospital admission, service breakdown, or social exclusion. EST exemplifies the values of collaboration, customer care, and community impact. Their work is rooted in the Building the Right Support agenda, and they have consistently delivered person-centred, community-based solutions that enable individuals to live fulfilling lives outside of restrictive environments. Working countywide, the team co-produces bespoke care packages with families, health professionals, and providers, demonstrating exceptional partnership working. Their creative, proactive interventions have led to the successful discharge of individuals from long-term hospital stays, many after years in institutional settings and have prevented countless admissions through intensive risk management and support planning. Their impact is measurable and profound, they have prevented several hospital admissions, reduced isolation, and supported individuals with the highest needs to live fulfilling lives. As a result, Derbyshire is not only delivering on national policy but also setting a standard of care that prioritises humanity and empowerment. Their compassionate, person-first approach and unwavering commitment to human rights and dignity have not only improved the lives of individuals but also positively impacted families, local services, and communities. Their professionalism, compassion, and dedication make them truly deserving of this recognition and they deserve to be celebrated locally for the meaningful and lasting difference they continue to make.
Disability Design team
Nominated by: Robin Duffy
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: The Derbyshire County Council Disability Design Team stands as a beacon of dedication and resilience, making them an exceptional nominee for the Serving our Communities Award. Despite facing the devastating news of their department's impending closure and the subsequent redundancy of half their staff this year, they have not only persevered but have delivered their busiest year yet, supporting over 500 disabled clients across Derbyshire. This remarkable team embodies the spirit of collaboration and unwavering commitment to the community. They work directly with disabled individuals, understanding their unique needs and designing tailored solutions that empower them to thrive in their own homes and communities. Their expertise transforms spaces, fostering independence and improving the quality of life for some of the most vulnerable members of our society. To achieve such a significant workload – over 500 projects – amidst the uncertainty and anxiety of departmental closure speaks volumes about their professionalism and dedication. They have continued to deliver excellent customer care and service, ensuring that disabled clients receive the vital adaptations and support they need without disruption. The positive change this team delivers is tangible and profound. From accessible home modifications to assistive technology recommendations, their work removes barriers and fosters inclusion. Their commitment to making a difference in the lives of people in our communities is evident in every project they undertake. Even with the shadow of redundancy looming, their focus remains steadfast on serving those who rely on their expertise. The Derbyshire County Council Disability Design Team’s unwavering dedication in the face of adversity truly exemplifies the spirit of this award. They have not only served our communities but have done so with extraordinary fortitude and an inspiring commitment to their clients.
Benefit Support Team - Welfare Rights Service
Nominated by: Samantha Whawell
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am thrilled to put forward the Benefit Support team for their outstanding dedication and exceptional service over the past year. This team has consistently demonstrated a commitment to advising clients over pension age, ensuring they maximise their income and benefits. Their efforts to support Derbyshire residents in making claims and verifying awards are correct have been truly remarkable. Throughout a service restructure, the team has shown incredible adaptability and resilience. They have embraced change with enthusiasm, continually learning new skills and improving their processes. The team’s positive morale and mutual support have been instrumental in fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. The Benefit Support team’s dedication to each case is evident in the high quality of service they provide. They work tirelessly to ensure that the community receives accurate and timely assistance, maintaining exceptional standards of excellence. Their efforts have significantly impacted the lives of many residents, helping them navigate the complexities of the benefit system with confidence. In recognition of their outstanding contributions, I proudly nominate the Benefit Support team for this award. Their unwavering dedication, innovative approach, and heartfelt commitment to the well-being of Derbyshire’s residents make them truly deserving of this honour.
Borrowash Library staff
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Staff at Borrowash Library, particularly Annaliese Bedford who is one of the Assistants in charge at the library, for her contribution in encouraging use of the local library so much so that in the recent restructure of the library service it was shown that this should be upgraded a whole Tier from a tier 4 library to a tier 3 library based on the usage by customers at this library. Annaliese has also continued to develop the service by offering regular activities for children and adults supported ably by her team. These have included events like the Borrowash Buccaneers pirate extravaganza which created a real response in the community so that children could participate and see their colouring entries displayed in the library as well as transforming the look of the library by turning it into a temporary pirate paradise. This continued to be followed up with regular events throughout the year, in November and December there was a Christmas Colouring Activity Raffle. In October they celebrated East and South East Asian Heritage, in September there was a Spotlight on the Tour of Britain Cycling Event, and this June she already has three major events organised including a Puzzle party for Loneliness awareness week, a community get together inviting local groups to spend a day together in the library sharing good practice and meeting each other as well as sharing what they do with local people. Their enthusiasm and ideas given limited resources and time have not ceased to amaze me and it is much appreciated all that they do by the local community.
Macmillan Cancer Support Team in the Welfare Rights Service
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Welfare Rights Service’s Macmillan Cancer Support Team has delivered exceptional services to Derbyshire residents impacted by cancer. The benefits system can be overwhelming and too unfamiliar for people to navigate alone. This team provides specialist level advice, casework and advocacy, to overcome barriers and ensure financial security for those impacted by cancer. Having the right financial support in place at a time of overwhelming uncertainty means more than having one less thing to worry about; it means that people can focus on their treatment, having the right care in place and making plans with their loved ones. The team collaborate with Derbyshire hospitals and hospices to deliver tailored services that meet their patients’ needs. The team regularly educate health partners and patients on benefit matters to increase take-up to secure better financial outcomes for health populations. The team works in partnership with Derby Homes so that Derby residents using the same hospitals and hospices still receive the same, excellent service. This is what is right for our patients and health partners. The team supported 2,914 Derbyshire & Derby residents to secure over £11.9 million in annualised financial gains across 2024/25. More than half of these people were receiving palliative and end of life care. And on top of benefit gains, the team also identified more than 1,000 patients with holistic support needs, including charitable grants, blue badges, energy costs and debt advice. The team regularly show great passion and flexibility by working when their service users need them, doing what they can to put minds at rest. One success at a time, for more than 10 years now since Macmillan began funding this team, has led to a movement of no longer facing financial uncertainty when getting a cancer diagnosis in Derbyshire.
Health and Wellbeing Team
Nominated by: Jay Patient
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Health and Wellbeing Team have embraced change this year with enthusiasm, passion and dedication. The team continuously put the people they support at the heart of what they do, ensuring they get the very best quality support to help them make the changes they want in life. The team have been open to working with colleagues across the council in order to best serve our communities, a particular example of this is working closely with the Community Connectors and Disability Employment Teams to ensure a well rounded support for individuals transitioning from day services. They have supported each other through both personal and professional challenges and come together to celebrate the successes the people they support have achieved as well as support each other when things didn't go so well. The team have worked hard to understand how we need to translate what they do alongside people into something we can shout about across the council and beyond, engaging well in working groups and working together to select a new outcome measure to trial within the team. In summary, they have shown excellent strength of character as a team to ensure that they are coming together to support people within the community who might otherwise fall between the gaps in more formalised services. They have been courageous, innovative, worked in collaboration and empowered each other to be the very best they can for the people they support.
Public Health
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I nominate the Public Health team for the Gamesley Community Needs Assessment (CNA), conducted in 2024 and due to be published in 2025. A CNA is a powerful driver for meaningful change, and a strong contender for the Serving Communities Award as it embodies our values and behaviours, in particular Collaborative, Innovative and Empowered. The CNA utilised the innovative participatory method which ensures that the community’s voice is central, achieved through rigorous stakeholder mapping, asset mapping and conducting interviews with people in the community. Following the project, a detailed communication plan was developed to ensure that we work as ‘one council’ to influence change that can address the needs identified by the community. The CNA embodied the value of being innovative by utilising intelligence to inform decision making. Data was used initially to identify which community to work with and why – Gamesley community was chosen as it is one of the most deprived areas in England and has a higher-than-average mortality rate and a high incidence of illnesses, such as cancer and COPD. The CNA team were dedicated to empowering the Gamesley community throughout this process. One example of this was when the team delivered an event in the Gamesley Community Centre for the residents and other stakeholders, this facilitated sharing the findings of the CNA and getting feedback from the community about the recommendations and next steps. The Gamesley CNA is an exemplary example of how our values can make a real impact to residents.
Affordable Credit Project
Nominated by: Lindsay Groom
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The affordable credit project makes a huge difference to peoples lives. Tackling issues like loan sharks and showing people ways to save for future events.
Amber valley START team
Nominated by: Marie Hind
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Amber valley START team! Amazing from management to ESW. They get individuals back up to baseline and confidence to manage independently to assisting assessments for ongoing at home care.
Advice Line and Appeals Team
Nominated by: Matt Allbones
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Advice Line and Appeals Team empower members of the public to improve their health and well-being by maximising their income. They do this by providing benefits advice over the phone and representation at Tribunals. The team have faced a challenging year with on-going high levels of demand and a number of internal changes. Throughout this time they have never lost focus on the clients’ needs, and the clients are some of the most vulnerable residents of Derbyshire. The team have maintained their professional approach, good humour and determination to ensure that clients are accessing the income to which they are entitled. Just one example of this was a client who had been unable to work for several years due to ill-health. The team were able to advise the client of the most effective way of progressing their claims, which resulted in them being £800 per month better off and a potential over payment was avoided. The client emailed to say, thanks for all your help you made a massive difference to our life.
Kiran Panesar
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Kiran Panesar (Community Health Improvement Worker) Live Life Better Derbyshire has worked with GP surgeries to deliver blood pressure checks and health and wellbeing support. Blood pressure checks are offered at Amber Valley Wellbeing Hubs and other locations within the area. Kiran has worked with PCN (Jodie Cook) and the LLBD management team supporting with the SOP and process guidance for these events, as well as collecting and logging all data. When required she has worked evenings and weekends. Kiran has supported and trained colleagues enabling them to deliver the service. This started as a pilot scheme for Amber Valley which has proved to be very successful with good uptake from patients to engage and as a result is being looked at to be replicated within other areas of Derbyshire. I feel Kiran has worked extremely hard on this project and deserves some recognition.
The Disability Employment Service Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Disability Employment Service Team for the Supporting People and Places to Thrive Award in recognition of their exceptional work helping individuals with barriers to employment find meaningful and sustainable work opportunities. This team has made a significant and lasting impact across our communities by delivering tailored support, building trust with individuals, and collaborating closely with local employers, service providers, and families. Their approach is person-centred and inclusive, ensuring every individual is met with dignity, encouragement, and practical support. The team consistently delivers excellent customer service, often going above and beyond to ensure participants are not only placed in work but are also prepared, confident, and supported to succeed long-term. Their commitment is evident in the real-life stories of people whose lives have been transformed—through increased independence, self-worth, and social connection. Their work embodies the very essence of positive change, breaking down stigma, tackling inequalities, and helping local businesses understand the value of inclusive employment. The team’s partnerships—both within the Council and across the community—have been critical to their success and are a model of what collaborative public service should look like. Whether helping a young person into their first job or supporting someone back into the workforce after a difficult life event, the Supported Employment Team delivers lasting impact. They don’t just support individuals—they help families, strengthen communities, and demonstrate how public services can truly help people and places thrive.
The PH Localities team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The PH Localities team I am nominating the Public Health Localities Team for the Serving Our Communities Award, in recognition of their outstanding partnership work to improve health outcomes across our communities. This cross-sector team—working with colleagues from the Districts & Boroughs, adult social care, children services, education, DWP, housing, community development, and the voluntary sector—has exemplified what true collaboration looks like. Together, they identified local health needs and designed place-based, person-centred approaches that create long-term, positive change. The team’s work has directly improved access to services, tackled health inequalities, and empowered communities. Through outreach initiatives, community health events, targeted wellbeing support, and local health champions, they have reached individuals who are often left behind by traditional models of care. Their focus is not just on improving health but on building trust, resilience, and capacity within communities. The team is focused on making a difference. They embody our values—putting people first, listening to communities, and striving for excellence. Their efforts are not only improving individual lives but also creating stronger, more connected places. The Localities Wide Team is an excellent example of how collaborative working can help people and places truly thrive.
Live Life Better Derbyshire Health Improvement Workers (Health Checks & Community)
Nominated by: Stephanie Smith
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I would like to nominate the Health Improvement Worker team for Live Life Better Derbyshire. They have delivered over 3000 blood pressure checks to communities and workplaces across Derbyshire identifying 42% with a high blood pressure (well above the national average of 1 in 3 with high BP). This demonstrates the value that our HIW's bring to our local communities, linking with key partners and local communities to offer BP checks to those less likely to access the checks & go around with undiagnosed hypertension. The CVD case finding work has provided us with great opportunity to link more closely with PCN's for example the development of the Community Wellbeing Hub's in Amber Valley. A multi-agency marketplace type model was set up by Jodie Cooke (Amber Valley ARCH PCN) in collaboration with key partners: GP’s, LLBD & Amber Valley Borough Council, working together to prevent long term health conditions. Multiple agencies came together at the Somercotes Community Centre to deliver physical health checks, provide support & advice on a range of topics, encouraging patients to see what was available to them locally to help them manage their health & wellbeing. LLBD is a key partner in this delivering BP checks as a conversation starter around a range of health & wellbeing topics that flowed from this. Our HIW's were then able to book people into our weight management, physical activity or stop smoking services. The Somercotes events were really popular with over 100 people attending some! This has previously been a really difficult community to engage with (the most deprived area in Amber Valley), we would be lucky if one or two would attend. Having a more collaborative approach with partners and agencies across Amber Valley and involving the community seems to have been a winning formula. We have now rolled the Wellbeing Hubs out across Amber Valley - Alfreton, Ripley, Heanor and Crich with great success and have events planned into 2026! We have received fantastic feedback from the GP's/PCN and it has really strengthened our relationship with them & the local communities.
Derbyshire Catering Service & The Free School Meals Teams
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: The Catering Service is at the heart of community wellbeing, delivering thousands of nutritious, government-standard meals daily to children in all school settings. Through their commitment to high-quality food, education, and support, the team helps children thrive and ensures no child is left behind when it comes to healthy eating. The service works collaboratively with schools, academies, parents, and pupils to promote the value of school meals—not just as a daily necessity, but as a stepping stone toward better health, learning, and development. Their efforts go beyond the lunch queue. They offer healthy eating assemblies, cater school events, attend parent evenings, and provide bespoke menus that reflect the diverse needs and cultures of Derbyshire communities. The Free School Meals team is a shining example of targeted community impact. They play a vital role in supporting the community by ensuring that eligible children receive the meals they are entitled to. Now fully digital, the process allows parents to enter their details through an online portal and receive an instant notification confirming eligibility. This efficient and user-friendly system reduces delays and provides families with timely support. The team carries out ongoing checks to identify any changes in individual circumstances, ensuring continued access to support where needed. Additionally, they produce reports for schools, providing clear data on eligibility ratios and percentages. The support from the Catering Service and Free School Meal team helps to reduce food insecurity, promote healthy eating, improve concentration and wellbeing among Derbyshire pupils. By working closely with Derbyshire families and schools, the teams ensure that no child goes without a meal due to financial hardship. Their work not only supports individual children but also strengthens the wider community by promoting equality, inclusion and better educational outcome for all.
East Team, Amber Valley Children's Services
Nominated by: Emma Vaughan
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: The East Team in Amber Valley Children's services have had a number of changes in the last 5 months, colleagues have sadly moved on and we have had 3 different managers, meaning different ways of working and instability for the team. Despite this, the team have pulled together to continue to support the families we are working with to a high standard. The team continue to evidence their professional curiosity, completing assessments that ensure the concerns raised are addressed, there are no hidden men and a multi-agency approach with agency checks. The team challenge professionals and parents when required and advocating for the children we support in order to promote their needs and bring about positive changes for them. The plans that have been derived have fully embraced a think family approach in order to keep families together where possible and remain child focused. The team members have supported each other in their work where possible and despite a number of team members having hardships in their personal lives, they have powered through and supported each other which I am extremely proud of. Despite the number of changes the team have had, work has continued to be completed to a high standard and within timescales including emergency care proceedings and moving children in to placements which can be a very challenging time.
The NHS Health Checks Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I would like to nominate the Health Checks Team within Public Health for our serving communities award, for their continual contribution to serving our Derbyshire residents. The Health Checks Team have performed exceptionally since taking on the new workplaces model in April. It is a small team of four, and they carry out health checks across the whole of the County. They have received continuous positive feedback from clients, and in many situations having a health check has had life changing outcomes for them. They also successfully promote the wider LLBD services to clients. An example of this is where they have collaboratively worked with the stop smoking team to encourage a local bakery to become a smoke free site. Whilst giving staff the opportunity to also have a health check to offer a more holistic and empowered approach towards positive behaviour change. The team successfully received funding as part of a cardiovascular disease prevention project run by the Department of Health and are exceeding on meeting the targets for this programme. They are also successfully targeting hard to reach groups within the population including working aged males, within manual occupation in low IMD areas. Which is a group that has been evidenced as not taking up their health checks at primary care level. The team are highly valued across the department, and they respect and support one another, this has enabled the team to grow, and shared goals have been realised which has led the service to continuously improve. As a team we make opportunities for reflective practice, and this has strengthened the team’s delivery not only operationally, but also for the strategic planning of the future of the programme. Ensuring each contact counts and working with the larger community as well as workplaces to meet the individual need of each area.
Bus Service Improvement Team (BSIP)
Nominated by: Kay Mcintyre
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: Bus Service Improvement Team have worked tirelessly implementing improvement to the local bus services in Derbyshire. Their delivery of a range of 18 work packages including new technologies and working practices have regenerated a bus network that has been in decline for many years exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. Since November 2022, their achievements include Traffic signal priority for buses at 122 road junctions, improvements to Highways pinch points in 15 locations, improved communication with operators on road works and disruptions, a 61% increase in b_line cards between September 2023 and March 2025 with associated rise in trips undertaken to over 50,000 in Oct and Nov 24, implementation and delivery of 359 Companion passes for carers, match discounting ticket schemes to encourage commuters travelling by bus, an increase of 104,575 concessionary trips in Q4 2024, compared to the same period in 2023, a new website with increase passenger information, Improved timetables and forthcoming journey planner, independent travel advice to more than 4,500 individuals, service enhancements leading to 1,222,421 more bus trips compared to the same service in the previous year, new services and improved waiting facilities in the county, increased Real time information totalling 402 displays including the use of solar technologies, a passenger charter and standardisation of service change dates for public confidence in services and recovered patronage to near pre pandemic levels with patronage increasing to a total of 29,668,278 bus trips across all operators realising a 5.4% growth exceeding the target of 5%. Their work helped Derbyshire meet 4 of 7 satisfaction targets for 2024, with the remaining 3 within 3% of target. Derbyshire now outperforms national and semi-rural comparators in nearly all areas. The largest gains were in value for money, punctuality perception and increased public satisfaction (independently surveyed) form 81% in 2023 to 91% in 2024.
Ada Belfield Centre in Belper
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: In extraordinarily difficult circumstances, the staff at the Ada Belfield Centre in Belper have proven themselves to be extraordinary people. Their commitment to the people in their care; their involvement in activities in the town to provide a purpose for this new facility as an asset to the town with contributions to civic award schemes and competitions; their innovations in making Ada Belfield Centre stand out as a first class facility, engaging and supporting the local community with activities such as carol singing; and all done in a way that encourages others to step forward and get involved without impacting on budgets and raises public appreciation of the Centre, its staff and its residents. They have very quickly created a hub for community growth, loved by the people who use and engage with it. They strive to make the Centre look and be the best it can offer to the public. An amazing group of people.
Ada Belfield care home staff
Nominated by: Colin Orton
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: My mother's been cared for by the staff at Ada Belfield care home for over 4 years now. The whole facility, building fixtures and fittings is of an extremely high standard. However for me and my 94 year old mother the staff, are a credit not only to you but to the community they represent. They truly go beyond every expectation that is set for them, nothing is too much trouble. The care and compassion they have shown not only for our mum but other residents is immeasurable. I truly believe if it wasn't for the love and care that this amazing team of individuals provide we would not be privileged with having our mum today. When you compare Ada Belfield care home to any other in our wider community they are for myself and my family graded as a 10 out of 10. I feel so grateful for all they do. They certainly are an amazing example of community care, they all have hearts of gold thank you so much to all the staff at Ada Belfield care home.
Ada Belfield team
Nominated by: Andrew Pearson
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The entire team at Ada Belfield continue to deliver the very highest quality care in very difficult circumstances. The team should be recognised for their professionalism, dedication and determination.
The Team at Ada Belfield, Belper
Nominated by: Sue Devine
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am one of the coordinators for Belper Arts Trail and Ada Belfield was one of our venues. The staff there deserve an award for everything they do, not just for the residents there but for our whole community. They were so helpful and positive, they don't shy away from something new or extra work and they are such a strong team who work so well together. The Arts Trail was Sunday 4th and Bank holiday Monday 5th May 2025 and the team embraced it, like they do everything else.
Welfare Rights Service
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Welfare Rights Service is a shining example of what it means to serve communities with passion, dedication, and impact. Over the past year the service has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting Derbyshire residents, ensuring they receive the financial assistance they are entitled to. With 23,682 residents engaged, 7,237 new claims and 811 new appeals supported, the work has led to an astounding £24.2 million in annualised gains for our community - creating real, tangible improvements in people's lives. At the heart of the success is collaboration. Working together across all teams, harnessing collective expertise to provide seamless, efficient support. By fostering strong partnerships within Adult Social Care and across the voluntary advice sector there is an integrated approach that ensures residents receive comprehensive advice. This culture of teamwork not only strengthens the service but also empowers the staff, ensuring they thrive professionally while making a meaningful difference. The service is committed to innovation, constantly evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. Whether adapting processes to streamline access, or having targeted work based on evidence, the service embraces change as an opportunity to support the community better. Empowerment is at the core and strive to equip teams and our communities with the tools and knowledge to build better futures. Through training to advice sector organisations, advocacy and engagement, it is uplifting individuals, helping them navigate complex systems with confidence. Ultimately the service holds itself accountable, focusing on delivering measurable outcomes and customer-focused solutions. Every action taken is driven with the desire to support and uplift Derbyshire residents. For these reasons the Welfare Rights Service deserves recognition through the Serving Our Communities Award.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Sarah has worked tirelessly with Kirk Hallam Academy to support our students and ensure they access the provision and do not become NEET. The provision is carefully tailored to meet the student needs. Her flexibility and ongoing communication/contact has been a huge factor in getting students on board and accessing the nurture and support they need.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: I would like to nominate Sarah for an award for all her hard work in engaging, motivating and supporting young people within Derbyshire. As part of Sarah's role within the youth hub she has supported numerous young people to explore careers, offer advice and support and enabled them to realise their full potential, and support them into work and/or training. Sarah continues to work towards lowering unemployment rates within the local area, through the work she does.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Rebecca Chapman
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Sarah Ball has been an absolute godsend for my son. On two occasions over the last year, when looking for work, she has listened, understood, and come up with several ideas, contacts and plans to support him on his journey. She was extremely patient and kind and went above and beyond to get him on track to where he wanted to be. No phone call or email was too much trouble. Although she remained supportive, Sarah also ensured my son was taking responsibility for his applications and search for apprenticeships in his own time while regularly keeping in contact to check his progress. This week, my son was offered an apprenticeship in a job he really wants to do. I don’t think we could have done this without her. We are very grateful.
Rob Bounds
Nominated by: Dan McCrory
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Rob for his outstanding dedication to encouraging children across Derbyshire to travel to school safely and sustainably. Rob is a well-known and well-loved figure in schools throughout the County, championing active travel and healthier lifestyles. His work has made a real difference, not just to pupils, but to families and communities - by promoting cleaner, greener, and more enjoyable journeys to school. Rob is the driving force behind the popular Travel Smart Week, held each May and October. Each day has a fun and engaging theme, such as I Like to Move it Tuesday and Step Back in Time Thursday, which bring creativity, learning and excitement to the school run. While Rob might modestly say it’s all part of the job, his energy, enthusiasm, and genuine passion for Sustainable Travel extraordinary. This year has been particularly exceptional. Rob’s efforts were recognised with three national award nominations at the Mode shift STARS Summit, including Best Local Authority Campaign. His support was instrumental in South Normanton Nursery’s shortlisting for Early Years Establishment of the Year and in William Gilbert School’s win for Best Travel Wise Week Campaign – the best in the Country! Rob has also led on impactful initiatives such as trialling one-day road closures outside schools for Clean Air Day. These highlighted the dangers of congestion and parking near schools. His persistence led to the first permanent School Street in Derbyshire at William Gilbert School, delivered in partnership with Derbyshire Highways. Beyond the county, Rob contributes nationally through the Mode shift STARS Board Membership and recently supported the All-Party Parliamentary Group inquiry on Active Travel and Social Justice. His insight and learning from this are helping embed best practice across the team. Rob’s work is not just commendable—it is transformative. He is a true ambassador for sustainable travel and community wellbeing.
Heather Gaunt
Nominated by: Robin Heath
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: I would like to recognise and thank Heather for hard work and support over the last few years. We often call on Heather for help/advice whenever we have transport issues, and she always has the answer. Heather is always friendly, and helpful, no matter how often we call and no matter how big/small the job, she always goes above and beyond to help. Minibuses are essential to the delivery of high-quality outdoor education to nearly 10000 children per year. Heather has been a huge part in keeping these on the road and subsequently supporting every child in making life changing memories, experiences, friendships, and boosts in confidence.
Andy Waring
Nominated by: Robin Heath
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Andy for his outstanding work with children in care at White Hall Centre. Andy regularly supports some of the most vulnerable young people in Derbyshire through outdoor education programmes, many of whom present with challenging behaviour and/or complex needs. Andy treats every young person as an individual and with genuine respect, which results in incredibly positive responses from those he works with. His ability to connect with them is exceptional, and he consistently achieves excellent outcomes, helping young people grow visibly in confidence and resilience. The activity programmes Andy delivers have had a profound and lasting impact. They have enabled young people to return to school, improve their behaviour, reintegrate with their families, avoid exclusions, and, in some cases, access meaningful alternatives to mainstream education. His work not only builds confidence and self-esteem but is often transformational. It is a testament to Andy’s professionalism, compassion, and dedication that he can build such strong and trusting relationships with the young people he supports. For some, Andy’s sessions represent the only moments of success in their week. His contribution to the lives of these children, and to our wider community, is truly invaluable.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Sarah Briggs
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Listen to what was needed, managed to engage the young person, friendly, welcoming and gives lots of options, makes you feel comfortable.
Leanne Parry
Nominated by: Nusrat Sohail
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Leanne is an amazing employee and a huge asset to the council as well the community she works within. Leanne has embraced change and worked proactively with communities to empower them to serve and support each other. Not only does she work as employee but she also volunteers delivering key programmes in the community for example the Freedom programme, volunteering for Home start as well as being a trustee on the board of a local community group. Leanne shines and leads by example by always be welcoming, supportive and positive. I have known Leanne for over 12 years as her manager and colleague and she has always given her best which always been she goes the extra mile to ensure who ever she is working with or supporting gets the best possible outcome to enable them to succeed.
Janice Taylor
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Janice has been working as a cleaner for White Hall Centre for almost a year. In that time we have seen a significant improvement in the staff morale and relationships, thanks in part to her consistent positivity and enthusiasm. No job is too big or small for Janice, and she is always happy to help out however she can, whether that's doing extra hours, helping other teams, or getting stuck into odd jobs around the centre. Janice always has a smile on her face, something that is regularly noticed by teachers and children who visit the centre and is often sighted as an example of how 'friendly White Hall staff are'. Janice's friendliness puts a smile on everyone's face and whenever she sees anyone tired or stressed, she is always there to try and cheer them up. Janice is a shining example of the attitude we at White Hall try to maintain.
Chantal Allen
Nominated by: Robin Heath
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: Chantal Allen is essential to the financial running of the White Hall Centre, and we couldn’t function without her. She is the epitome of supportive: always helpful, friendly, and cheerful, no matter how busy she is. Nothing is ever too much trouble for her. She consistently goes above and beyond to help us with budgets, resolve financial issues, and offer sound advice, etc - always with a smile and endless patience. Chantal has a real talent for making the complex seem straightforward, and her calm, positive approach makes her an absolute joy to communicate with. She plays a vital role behind the scenes, but her impact is felt every day across the team. She did ask me not to nominate her – sorry, Chantal! – but I honestly believe she deserves recognition for the incredible support she gives us. Her dedication, good humour, and willingness to help make a genuine difference to our work and the community we serve. For us, this award is a small but meaningful way to say thank you.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: Sarah has been instrumental in working with us here at Prostart Training to build a nurturing environment in the community for young people who could have got lost had we not worked together to support and turn their lives around; this collaborative work has been a real success for all.
Sarah Ball
Nominated by: Anne Saint
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: Sarah Ball, goes above and beyond, she is fully supportive of the community and gets involved guiding or signposting to ensure goals can be met. Very knowledgeable and gets involved with the care and support of all, especially care leavers and those with difficulties finding their way
Rachel Burton
Nominated by: Robin Heath
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Rachel Burton for the Serving Our Communities Award (Empowered) in recognition of her outstanding dedication and service in supporting looked after children in Derbyshire.
I have had the privilege of working with Rachel on numerous occasions, and each time I have been struck by her unwavering commitment to the young people in her care. This has been particularly evident whilst working with a young person in emergency accommodation earlier in 2025. Rachel is not only incredibly supportive and compassionate, but she consistently demonstrates a tireless work ethic that goes far beyond what is expected of her role.
Rachel is always available to support the children she works with - often sacrificing her own time, including evenings, days off, and even holidays, to ensure that no child is left without the care and attention they need. Her ability to build trusting and supportive relationships with young people is remarkable, and she brings a calm, caring presence that is both reassuring and inspiring. Her support has helped create much needed stability in the lives of young people who need it most, and it is both comforting and encouraging to know that some of Derbyshire’s most vulnerable children are being supported by employees like Rachel. She is a shining example of dedication, empathy, and excellence in public service, and thoroughly deserves to be recognised.
Aimee Wright
Nominated by: Robin Heath
Department: Children's Services
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Aimee for the Serving Our Communities Award (Empowered), in recognition of her hard work and dedication in supporting a looked after child.
Aimee is the social worker of a young person who has attended White Hall Centre for a number of years and I have had the pleasure of working with her for the last 2 years. Aimee shows exceptional and inspiring levels of compassion, understanding, patience, and caring, which has had a profound positive impact on both the young person and their family. It is clear that Aimee goes above and beyond for this young person and is always searching for new opportunities for them. In the 2 years of interactions with Aimee she has been consistently positive and enthusiastic, even in the face of very challenging events and circumstances.
It is both comforting and encouraging to know that some of Derbyshire’s most vulnerable children are being supported by employees like Aimee. She is a shining example of dedication, empathy, and excellence in public service, and thoroughly deserves to be recognised.
Ben Taylor
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Ben Taylor and the Affordable Credit Project for the ‘Serving Our Communities Award’ for their work with the England Illegal Money Lending Team to support residents who are at risk of illegal money lenders.
Ben’s hard work has been key to the success for the project so far, supporting 2,000 Derbyshire residents to access safe and legal forms of borrowing. Collaborative – Ben has the welfare of vulnerable people at heart and values partnership working to achieve this. He listened to my needs, and we realised our shared goal for empowering peoples’ financial resilience whilst supporting them into legal credit options or financial support. Innovation – Ben is always happy to think outside of the box with me, he suggested joint training sessions for us to deliver and promoted this strongly to DCC staff.
Ben has shared opportunities to deliver training to groups of young people and other events. He has often jumped into our Sid the Shark mascot suit, to enable to me to engage with more people. Empowered – I value him greatly, often saying I need ‘a Ben’ in my other areas. He’s always quick to help me plan engagement/ training activities or contact the right person. Accountable – if something hasn’t gone as planned, Ben immediately takes accountability and reflects for improvements.
I admire his ability to empower my accountability too. His hard work to promote the Illegal Money Lending Team has resulted in a number of pieces of intel and potential victims referred to our service. This allows me to provide support for vulnerable people in debt to a loan shark and for us to take an investigation forward (could be a couple of years for the result of this). I look forward to our continued partnership as an ongoing project.
Kiran Panesar
Nominated by: Kim Locking
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Kiran has helped set up a pilot scheme in Amber Valley working with GP surgeries and Social Prescriber Jodie Cook to invite patients in to the local leisure centres for blood pressure readings and life style information and support.
This has proved to be immensely popular with patients who state it was easy to access when GP appointments are harder to get. Data showed readings for patients were high and needed follow ups and on occasions immediate intervention from GP so proved invaluable.
Kiran has put a lot of time into this scheme attending Saturdays and regular visits where around 70 have attended in 3 hours. Kiran has worked well with other agencies and teams attending alongside and supported her colleagues with this project. She has done this with enthusiasm and professionalism and is a credit to her.
Sam Molloy
Nominated by: Nicola Perry
Department: Childrens Services
Reason for nomination: Sam Molloy has been an invaluable addition to the CIC Team for Erewash. Whether an enquiry for support from a colleague, a fellow employee or a family member Sam will always go above and beyond to ensure children in Derbyshire have the best opportunities to thrive. I wish for Sam to be recognised for her continued hard work and excellent practice.