The network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks – Rob Bounds, Shaz Choudhury, Mya Munro, Betsy Byrne and Deb Solomon
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Various
Reason for nomination: Working together network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks have maximised their individual skills to achieve something better together, evidenced good communication, collaboration and a commitment to their shared goals, a focus on learning, developing and supporting each other. The network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks hold voluntary roles, and are all juggling their own personal workloads, individual equality challenges, as well as their responsibilities towards the networks they represent and the colleagues across the council they support. Working collaboratively and not in a segregated manner the network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks excel in consistent proactive communication, contributing to corporate policy, organisation change and transformation, Our Derbyshire, the staff website, working 1-2-1 with colleagues seeking support, across their respective Teams’ channels and with one another holding regular catch-up sessions. Together they have helped many colleagues resolve personal problems through appropriate mentoring, peer support and signposting to the relevant policy or service. The network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks promote learning, including via formal personal, and professional development utilising the Training hub (DLO), holistically through peer-to-peer discussion and via the invitation to internal and external stakeholders to act as guest speakers at network meetings. Peer-to-peer discussion within network chair catch-up sessions has allowed individuals to challenge systemic bias and to understand their respective support areas more fully and without fear of reprisal. When coming into the start of year PDR season, the network leads of the Pride, BME, dis-Ability Inclusion and Neurodiversity Networks reached out to one another to provide praise and critical analysis of one another, showing support for each one’s development, as well as collaboration and a commitment to their shared goals, supporting one another personally.
One Council Support Functions Project Team – Jess Morton-Cain, Sally Bakry, Annabel Byrom, Gemma Bains, Kate Hockaday, Nathan Wrench, Emma Hickman, Emma Johnston, Lucy Wardle, Carrie Ann Limb
Nominated by: Kate Hockaday
Department: Various
Reason for nomination: I am recommending the One Council Support Functions project team for the High Performing Team award. The team successfully delivered the One Council Support Functions project on time; centralising 855 colleagues to CST on 1st April as planned. This was a large scale, transformational change for DCC, impacting colleagues across the organisation. Despite tight timescales and often challenging circumstances, the cross-functional team pulled together to undertake a successful delivery.
The Project Team included colleagues from PMTT (Projects, Change and Benefits/Data), HR (Services and Operational), Communications, Finance and Digital who utilised their skillsets and experience to plan and execute delivery for a successful outcome. The team were supportive of each other, at times during difficult periods, and were all happy to step in as needed to get the job done.
Digital Traded Services – Amy Vickers, Gill Claxton, Dan Cockayne
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: Digital Traded Services includes Data Protection, Cyber Security, Data Management, IT4Schools, collaborating, listening to schools to deliver the shared goal, keeping schools safe. DP has over 500 school clients. Cyber Security has transitioned into a commercial service, having designed and delivered the hugely successful Cyber Awareness project to Derbyshire schools, training over 5000 staff. It now has large MAT contracts inc Co-op Academies Trust, works closely with DfE, NCSC & RPA and delivers Online Safety training. Data Management navigated the potential attrition of academisation and is now working with Derbyshire’s largest MATs. We innovate, embracing change and continuously improving how we deliver and support – embracing AI, remote learning platforms, new and efficient ways of working. The Data Protection Team is the European Picasso Data Privacy Team 2024, beating Visa, Post Office, Deliveroo and Shell. The Cyber Team are 2024 Cyber Public Service of the Year and one of the team is Cyber Personality of the Year. Further, our apprentice achieved Damar Star award, and we were shortlisted in the FOI Awards. My motivation for nominating teams and colleagues is because they are ‘Empowered’, trusting and value each other to deliver incredible, unwavering support to schools. I ask much of them, they never fail to deliver. We are accountable to our wonderful clients, sector regulators and of course, key internal stakeholders. We generate significant income for the council. 'I have loved learning from you all ….!’ CB, Brigg Infants ‘the training was really good, I really enjoyed it ...’ TP, DPO, Co-op Academies Trust, ‘EDH is a leading voice in Education', head of Cyber Essentials.
Derbyshire Catering Service
Nominated by: Joanne Davidson
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: As Head of Catering Service, I would like to nominate the Derbyshire Catering Service team for the High Performing Team Award. The entire team has demonstrated outstanding performance in delivering 8.5 million high-quality meals to schools across Derbyshire over the year, despite encountering significant operational challenges related to food/labour increases and recruitment/staffing issues. Furthermore, a projected overspend for 2024/25 had the potential to impose additional financial burdens on the Council. However, through effective collaboration throughout the year, the team achieved a near break-even position, thereby delivering an exceptional result for the Council.
This was achieved by implementing a comprehensive business plan focused on sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Key initiatives included:
- Optimising best value through supplier negotiation
- Diversifying revenue streams, resulting in additional income
- Negotiating profit shares with schools to encourage partnership working
- Allowing voluntary reduction of working days for management without incurring additional costs
- Implementing a sickness monitoring process to reduce rates
- Reviewing and eliminating non-essential management positions
- Capping monthly travel expenditures and requiring approvals for excess mileage claims
- Converting year-round staff vacancies to term-time positions
- Scrutinising avoidable costs related to cooking preparation in kitchens
- Requesting cost-saving suggestions from kitchen employees
- Implementing online legislative training courses to save travel expenses
These efforts resulted in significant cost reductions and improved efficiency.
The team's success stemmed from maximising individual skills and collaborating on shared goals. Open communication and regular meetings kept everyone informed, allowing each member to contribute effectively with their expertise. Front-line employees were encouraged to give feedback and suggestions, promoting engagement and accountability. The team's exceptional management and strategic planning abilities, combined with their innovative solutions and steadfast dedication to meeting service demands, have positioned them as a prominent candidate for this prestigious award.
Oaklands Day Centre - Rachel Protheroe, Jane Cook, Marie Eyley, Kat Blanksby, Sheena Watts, Annette Adams, Shirley Barnett, Mandy Jefferies, Liz Allen and Lyn Perrera
Nominated by: Dawn Meakin
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: On the 28th November 2024 we lost one of our much loved and cherished Day Centre Workers, she had been taken into hospital 6 weeks previously and was given the diagnosis of Cancer having spread through her body, and was told she only had a short time to live. Although she communicated with us, she didn't want visitors, only her husband, daughter and best Friend Jane who is another of our DSW'S. Obviously this was a very tough time for the staff of the Day Centre, we were devastated has she had such a zest for life and loved the Day Centre and was loved by everyone. On 30th November we had booked the Client and Family Christmas Party, obviously we were all very upset and devastated but the group came together and said that she would want us to go ahead with the Party. The group went ahead with the party and through their sadness managed to make sure that everyone had a wonderful time and even brought her into the Party by talking about her to the Clients and family and singing along to what was her favourite song "My Way". I saw it was a difficult time for everyone but they managed to put their sadness aside, they set up a whatsapp group to share memories and photos of who we had lost, and were there for each other whenever someone needed to talk or need a shoulder to cry on. They put the Clients first and made sure the Clients in the Day Centre were unaware of the Sadness they felt and made sure that they enjoyed themselves when attending the Day Centre. The team were professional at all times, cared for each other and continue to involve our lovely colleague in the group. I think they showed professionalism, and their caring nature shone through, for each other and the Clients.
Business Services Team - Welfare Rights Service - Cassie Metters, Ruth Sullivan, Rachael Allen, Vicky Beet, Dawn Melbourne, Jayne Stallion & Bek Jeffery
Nominated by: Samantha Whawell
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: I am delighted to nominate the Business Services team in Welfare Rights for their exceptional performance and unwavering dedication over the past year. Despite facing numerous challenges, including an office change and a service restructure, the team has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience. The team has embraced new ways of working, effectively utilising Microsoft Teams to enhance communication and collaboration. Their strong relationship with the Business Centre has been pivotal in ensuring seamless operations and support. Additionally, they have welcomed new colleagues with open arms, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Moreover, the team has successfully transitioned to a new structure under one council support function, showcasing their ability to thrive amidst change. Throughout these transitions, the quality of service provided to the people of Derbyshire has remained exemplary. The team's dedication to maintaining high standards of support has never wavered, ensuring that the community continues to receive excellent service. In recognition of their outstanding efforts, I wholeheartedly nominate the Business Services team in Welfare Rights for this award. Their commitment to excellence, adaptability, and unwavering support for the community truly sets them apart.
Practice Development Team
Nominated by: Claire Shaw
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Practice Development team for the high performing team award for the ongoing support the offer to Newly qualified social workers and students within adults & children's social care. The team works closely with universities, principle Social Workers and area social care teams with a focus on learning and supporting others. We are currently support has over 75 newly qualified social workers in the Assessed & Supported Year in Employment, and a large amount of student social workers, to not only supporting them to develop essential skills and knowledge to become solid Social Workers that can provide support the most vulnerable members of our community and their families. We strive to empower the individuals that we support to develop well rounded social workers that become the face of the LA, as well as positively impacting on recruitment and retention issues, as well as providing a valuable income for the LA.
Amber Valley Start Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Amber Valley Start Team - the team has been formed for around 18months and has a variety of staff from various roles, they have come together and collaborate as a team, working with outside agencies such as the hospital discharge teams, community therapists and most importantly the clients, carers and families within the community. The teams role has grown and developed over the last 6 months to incorporating new roles such as capacity management which has gone on to streamline processes and provide beneficial services to the community as a whole. The team is passionate and empowered to strive to move forwards and continue to meet the support needs of the clients. The team is led by forward thinking management who promote empowerment and trust.
Ada Belfield Centre
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The team at Ada Belfield have continue to provide outstanding care to the residents that live there, they still have smiles on their face despite going through a consultation and the shattering news of losing Ada Belfield. The staff go above and beyond on a regular basis for the residents and make the home feel warm and welcoming, it’s like “going home to one big family”. The support that they have provided to the residents has been incredible and the trusting relationship that the residents have with the staff really does make it feel like one big family. All the staff from Domestics, Laundry assistants, Kitchen staff, Care workers, caretaker (Vertas), senior care workers and the managers are a fantastic team and deserve to be recognised for the empowering work that they do.
You are amazing, Keep it up team Ada B!
Lea Green Development Centre
Nominated by: Vicky Green
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Lea Green staff continue to provide an excellent service to all its customers. The centre provides inclusive outdoor activities and residential stays for schools, groups and families across the county. The team has to work together to provide a sparkling centre, beautiful grounds, tasty food and fabulous opportunities for young people to achieve. Team members go above and beyond to support each other in their roles achieving so much more as a group than as individuals. The result of their work is exceptional visits evidenced by the amazing feedback the centre receives. The machine that is the Lea Green Team is now in top gear as we enter the post-SATs summer season.
Whitehall centre
Nominated by: Ian Wilson
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: In the last year 2024-2025 Whitehall centre have worked closely with our centre Lea Green, in the areas of providing staff when we have had staff sickness enabling us to deliver our centres programmes. They have also worked with us to initiate changes and improvements across the service for our work with Alternative provision and SEND work though regular meeting and sharing ideas and working practises to enhance/improve our delivery to these sectors. They have loaned us equipment/minibuses when needed helping reduce cost to the service. They have also delivered National governing body award training/assessments to our staff team in mountain biking, hillwalking and rock climbing again helping the service reduce cost and further improving the skills base of our team which in turn further improves the quality of the centres delivery to the young people of Derbyshire and wider groups we deliver too.
Healthy Workplaces Team as a whole, including the HIW - Health Checks
Nominated by: David Hilton
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: From April 2025 the change of the 4 staff of the Health Check Team to fall under Healthy Workplaces and move from supporting GP surgeries to deliver NHS Health Checks to providing them in Workplaces. In particular workplaces ideally with men, aged over 50 in manual or semi routine jobs who do not visit the GP. With a great deal of effort and commitment to bring on board businesses we have moved from a standing start to now having a nearly full diary contributing to over 100 NHS Health Checks and/or Body MOT Plus for those individuals that fall outside of the NHS Health Check criteria. Therefore a shout out for the 4 Health Check, Health Improvement Workers, but also the 4 Healthy Workplace SDO's overseen by Steph Smith who needs a mention as well.
Fleet Services, County Transport
Nominated by: Deborah Oddy
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: The Fleet team in Place is being nominated as it is high performing, professional and an essential element of the Council's ability to "Keep Derbyshire Moving". The team is made up of 62 dedicated staff located at 5 workshops throughout Derbyshire and consists of highly experienced and skilled colleagues - from strong and visible leadership to LGV and HGV mechanics, parts officers, enforcement and technical support staff. They work diligently in the background as unsung heroes and never seem to gain the wider Council recognition they deserve - largely because they just get on with the job and make things happen. They have a tremendous work ethic and will never give up on a problem. Their overall objective is to purchase, maintain and keep vehicles running to the highest industry standards and to protect and enhance vehicle standards in Derbyshire. The stats are impressive: an internal fleet of 550 vehicles across every department including Highways, Property and Libraries. They are an integral part of the winter maintenance service and keep our roads open in adverse weather by maintaining the gritters and being on standby during cold winter nights. Mechanics will respond to breakdowns in freezing conditions whilst the rest of us are tucked up in warm beds, completely unaware of these essential night time repairs on lorries and gritters! In addition to the large internal fleet, they operate the important Derbyshire Police contract, maintaining a further 800 vehicles on a 24/7 basis on every single day of the year. Without Fleet Services, the Police fleet would grind to a halt very quickly - with obvious repercussions on the protection of residents. They also maintain around a further 150 vehicles, under contract, to the Peak District National Park, local schools and academies and community transport organisations. If this wasn't enough, they provide MOT services to the public (a plug to use them colleagues), purchase and operate around 16 electric vehicles and run the small electric pool car fleet based at County Hall. The standard of service provided is exemplary and should be both recognised and celebrated. As a Council our Operator Compliance Risk Score as audited by the Driver Vehicle Standards Authority (DVSA) has a Green rating (the best category = equals low risk) and our base score is extremely low at 0.65. This is an amazing accolade and represents excellence in the many score categories which are assessed. Without the hard work behind the scenes and in the workshops every day, this score would be much higher and the Council could be threatened with having its Operator Licence withdrawn and all vehicles grounded.
Although Fleet Services has been in existence for many decades, the challenges in the last few years since the pandemic have been enormous and the service has had to adapt and transform every part of its function. It is now today a highly successful Traded Service which generates a healthy income for the Council and allows for further investment in the transition to a more efficient and cost effective electric fleet, to meet the Council's net zero targets. I am nominating this team for their professional delivery of a high quality service, but also for the whole team ethos of commitment, dedication and without a doubt, "going the extra mile" for Derbyshire and its residents.
Sam Pollard, Ann Kitson, Shannon Wyld, Anna Bland, Julia Cantrill, Carol Taylor and Kathy Peberdy
Nominated by: Kathy Whiteley
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: I have had the privilege of working with and managing this team, who between them support the running of 3 adult education centres, for 3 years. During our time together, the team have had to embrace many changes examples to include the introduction of a new database system; changes to processes and procedures to improve efficiencies; and the closure of the Alfreton centre, whilst continuing to maintain a high level of commitment to ensure continuity of our service. They work collaboratively as a team and communication between them is excellent and when the opportunity presents, we will often socialise together. They require very little supervision, which allows me to spend more time on centres needing more support. They are proactive and will openly approach me with any ideas or concerns and will often offer solutions to problems. The team over time have received positive feedback from our stakeholders, the latest was back in March 2025, when the Alfreton centre received a Golden Apple award (recognition in the DACES brief), for how well they embraced their roles and how professional they are despite the centre being busy and how they go that extra mile to help learners. Last week, I received feedback to say how well the recent marketing event that took place at Cotmanhay went and how helpful Kathy was – she was asked to talk to visitors about our 16-19 year old study program.
Erewash North Social Work Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Erewash North Social Work team are a fantastic team who embody team work and collaboration. As a team, they are full of big characters who make the office a wonderful place to work. Morale is so important, and as a collective group, they give so much to the area. The team are supportive, not just of each other, but of other teams as well, pitching in, offering shadowing opportunities and generally being approachable and supportive of others. As a team, they demonstrate a fantastic level of work, managing complex cases with professionalism and real insight. Their collective knowledge and experience is something they share with each other, only to the benefit of those they support. It’s a testament to the North Team that, for example, in a recent Court of Protection hearing, the judge commended the workers involved for their work and acknowledge the incredible amount of work that had gone into trying to promote the best interests of an individual they support, and working tirelessly and creatively to promote independent living in the community where possible, despite the complexity and risks of the case. The team also has a pocket of workers who are new to the authority and/or new to the role of social worker, and this group continue to spend time and effort contributing to the learning and development not only of the team but each other. One worker, for example, spearheaded the creative use of large office window to facilitate a group reflection – something that remains up in the office and a piece of useful information for other. So many teams in Derbyshire are amazing, and all deserve a mention. However, the North team truly do embody the supportive team that we should all strive to be a part of.
Mental Health Enablement
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Mental Health enablement team, based out of Clay Cross, NE Derbyshire, Amber Valley, Chesterfield, South Derbyshire, the Peaks and Dales, continually deliver exceptional services that go far beyond expectations. They are innovative in the ways they find ways to improve independence and happiness of the people they support. Individual skill and experience are merged constantly as a whole team and have/are helping to transform how the public view not just mental health enablement, but the entirety of the health and social care sector. Mental Health enablement have been overlooked for many years for the exceptional service they deliver. It is time for recognition.
Derbyshire UASC & Leaving Care Team
Nominated by: Carolyn Nice
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Derbyshire Leaving Care & UASC Teams
The teams - all localities have gone above and beyond to support our care leavers into independence with commitment and compassion. The UASC team led by Natalie Sempers has risen to the challenge of increasing numbers of unaccompanied young people arriving in the county requiring support and accommodation. The Leaving care teams work hard to encourage the young people to embrace independence with positivity. The recent OFSTED report reflected their hard work. The leaving care service was taken in house in July 2019 and has gone from strength to strength now having the new hub at Ilkeston as well as the hub at chesterfield.
The Derbyshire Registrars - Chesterfield Town Hall
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: We would like to nominate The Derbyshire Registration Team at the Chesterfield Town Hall, on a daily basis they are serving the general public at the most poignant times in their lives. From being with new parents in the Joy of registering a new baby or the sadness of registering a Still Birth or death of a child. Bring part of a couple’s special day on their marriage, to sadly having to register a death of a loved one. The Registrars have a combined service of over 75 years in such a small team, along with the Deputy’s and Administration Staff they touch the lives of many families across Derbyshire. They are one service in the council that bring in revenue continuously increasing revenue each year. As team they are always looking forward and putting ideas together to higher management of how they can keep one step ahead of the competition, as they all believe and want the service to progress and be a standout service not matter which part of the job they are doing.
Buxton Museum and Art Gallery
Nominated by: Martha Jasko-Lawrence
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: Following the decision to sell Peak Buildings in May 2024, the team at Buxton Museum and Art Gallery were tasked with packing up the entire museum collection to move it to external storage, along with dealing with all the equipment, resources and paperwork accumulated over 97 years in the venue. The team came together after a long period of uncertainty (the museum closed to the public in June 2023) and new leadership (the manager had been on long term sick leave since September 2023 and, following her retirement, was replaced in July 2024) to complete this complicated and mentally and physically exhausting task in time for the building to be handed over to its new owners in early March 2025, while ensuring public access to the collections could be maintained for the future. The team worked with integrity and initiative, supporting each other in our areas of strength and weakness, which meant so much more was achieved. They showed willingness to learn and adapt as circumstances changed and kept going despite the task seeming overwhelming at times. They welcomed and trained staff from across the Council who had volunteered to help with packing up. They liaised with internal and external partners and suppliers as needed to ensure the project progressed and all tasks were completed. Since the museum service has moved to its temporary home at Buxton Library, the team has continued to be adaptable and responded brilliantly to the new work environment and the new work tasks that are now needed. Overall, they have shown kindness, humour and support during a challenging time and have really stepped up to the plate.
Ilkeston North and West
Nominated by: Hannah Abel
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Ilkeston North and West have had limited staff members but still continued to provide an outstanding service to our vulnerable families. Workers have gone above and beyond by working additional hours and not being paid for them, they have ensured safety plans are in place and have remained curious despite us being short staffed and exhausted. Our RCRs are consistently good and this evidences the amazing, hard working and dedicated staff we have across the teams. Our team is one of the most stable teams in Erewash and we all muck in when needed. No one needs to ask for support, the team will drop everything and offer support as and when needed. Our team is a family :)
Healthy Workplace NHS Health Check Practitioners
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: This team is exceptional. Their work involves clinical work delivering NHS Health Checks in workplaces, and community settings, directly with the public, and often working independently, so their responsibilities go far beyond their fellow Health Improvement Advisors, who have less direct public contact, and often work in office environments where there is immediate support. Their work is particularly challenging in the winter months, when they travel across Derbyshire, often alone and in poor weather and darkness, and since the team are targeting more deprived communities, often in unfamiliar and challenging neighbourhoods. They have to take with them lots of clinical equipment, setting a clinical area up from scratch once arriving at their destination, in order to safely and effectively undertake the tests required. Clients can sometimes be upset, challenging, and even present with severe anxiety or suicidal thoughts which the team have to manage. Their work is crucial nationally, and therefore in the key aim of the Public Health Team of primary prevention, and their clinical expertise, diligence in practice, and communication skills with their clients will have made sure that people presenting with risk factors for CVD, stroke and diabetes are referred to the most suitable service to support and treat them. The team support each other, sharing ideas, knowledge, and tips they have picked up in practice to further support clients. The team are very active in contributing ideas to improve the service, participate in regular team meetings and in the governance process which assesses their own practice every year, and has ensured that the service provided continues to be of the highest quality. Please consider them for an award.
Ada Belfield team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Ada Belfield team have worked through a period of enormous stress and anxiety placed upon them from not knowing if the service will close. They have stayed focused on delivering an excellent caring service to the long term residents downstairs and the Community Support Bed residents upstairs. The Community Support Bed team worked in conjunction with Therapy, ACP's, Social care co-ordinators, Family and friends. The service was effective and efficient ensuring all residents after rehabilitation could return home or alternative accommodation to suit their needs. The downstairs team continued their excellent care supporting the long term residents who became very stressed when the news broke about the service being sold or closed. The Community Support Bed Unit has now closed upstairs.
Internal Mail Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: Internal Mail Team work hard to deliver our mail and packages, they are willing to go the extra mile should we need something delivering urgently and have overcome staffing shortages without any major effect on their responsibilities to deliver. They always support any venture we have happening within DACES too. They simply brighten our day
Local Nature Recovery Strategy team
Nominated by: Rupert Casey
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: This nomination is for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy team. Biodiversity loss in Derbyshire is accelerating. This is negatively impacting on people, places and our natural world. However, we know new investment in the county’s natural environment can be secured. Furthermore, our evidence shows that landscape and local habitat improvements bring much needed social, health, regeneration, and economic growth benefits that can be shared by everyone. The Environment Act 2021 placed a statutory duty on the Council to lead the preparation of Derbyshire’s first Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS). Our LNRS is one of 48 being prepared across England to ensure a co-ordinated and focused approach, with weight and meaning, to assure the government that the delivery of national targets to reverse biodiversity loss will be secured, whilst also promoting the value of people connecting with nature in their neighbourhoods. Since January 2024 Derbyshire’s LNRS has been prepared in accordance with statutory guidance, scrutiny from Natural England, a firm focus on co-production, multi-stakeholder and political governance, and use of a government grant of £0.423m (its value reflecting the county’s diverse landscapes and range of stakeholders). The LNRS is now in final draft and is being prepared for approval by Cabinet. The collaborative methods applied to gathering evidence (scientific, financial, and people’s lived experiences – especially farmers), and the inclusive approach to agreeing priorities and actions, has been recognised by Natural England as being exemplary practice at a national scale. The team that has delivered this unique and impactful strategy consists of: Tom French (Ecologist); Gary Ellis (Landscape Architect); Caroline Toplis (Head of Environmental Sustainability); and Adam Lathbury (Head of Conservation, Heritage and Design). They have collectively forged a LNRS that provides a clear technical route map, and a social movement for change, to protect and enhance our rural and urban ecosystems.
Risk and Insurance
Nominated by: Hazel Coates
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: Insurance claims team/Risk and Insurance. I am nominating them for their sheer determination to succeed despite the extreme circumstances. December 2023 was the start of an unprecedented volume of highways claims, due to several events that were compounded by a series of severe weather events. This resulted in a huge volume of claims being received. In addition, there were complaints due to delays, thousands of emails being received and a lot of pressure. The claims handlers were new and still learning, during a time that was stressful and overwhelming. However, the team excelled when others could have quite easily backed away from the pressure and moved on. The team members collaborated to find a new process to get through the backlog. Everyone came into the office, sharing ideas, discussing various scenarios, coming up with solutions. They maximised their individual skills to achieve the best outcomes for the Council. They were happy to learn from each other and provide support and genuinely wanted to develop each other as well as themselves. At times when the sheer number of outstanding claims seemed bleak, they remained focussed; stayed positive despite the criticism from the public and the barrage of complaints/abusive language. They never took it personally, which shows their dedication to their work. They want to achieve the best for the Council; to ensure all claims are handled in line with the insurance policy, and to achieve savings. The defensibility rate for claims dropped low but the dedicated claims handlers have slowly begun to increase this by sheer determination. In 18 months, they have handled over 4,000 claims, when the average prior to December 2023 was only 800 per year. They now have a new defined process, agreed timeframes, less complaints, and a team that continues to support each other.
White Hall Outdoor Activity Centre – Robin Heath
Nominated by: Rachel Burton and Aimee Wright
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Robin Heath and the rest of the White Hall staff have gone above and beyond to support our children in care. Robin and his team have worked collaboratively with social workers from February 2025 to present, they have recognised the potential of one particular child and afforded them with the opportunity to develop their skills in outdoor activity instructing and leadership. Robin and the team at White Hall have worked all hours outside of their usual working commitments to help achieve positive outcomes, they have been consistent for this young person and offered a safe space for them to explore their interests. We are so grateful to have such a positive resource, with staff such as Robin who are prepared to take a risk to be there for our children in care and act as an advocate and role model for them.
High Peak North Dales Family Help Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: During the difficult challenging times of the 2024 review, where we lost colleagues friends and our confidence, High Peak North Dales Team would not allow it to defeat us, we stuck together and took the new Family Help Service head on. We overcame adversity, we deliver high quality work managed by a fantastic Manager who listens, supports and empowers us all to deliver the best service we can offer. All members of the team from 0-5 team, parenting assessors, Family Help assistant and the youth and family Practitioners work collaboratively, supporting each other as well as delivering a bespoke service to families enabling them to feel empowered and supported. In September 2024 our locality had 3044 young people who were NEET/unknown, as a dedicated team we worked together and we caught up on the NEET figures in record time, (which has not gone unrecognised), within our locality ensuring young people have the best support we can offer to encourage them back into education/employment/training. Our current figures May 25 are the lowest they have been for over 12 months.
Library Service
Nominated by: Robert Clayton
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Library Services team for their high performance in 2024-25. The year saw the implementation of a new Library Management System, new stock contracts, and a reorganisation of staffing. All of these pieces of work were major undertakings, each of which will save the Council money and create a more sustainable basis for the future. The team have worked incredibly closely together, supporting each other, and tackling all of the unexpected challenges resulting from change programmes.
Erewash Short Term Assessment and Reablement Team
Nominated by: Sinead Stanley, Jessica Farrell, and Emma Whysall
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: We would like to nominate Erewash START for this award in recognition of their outstanding commitment to person-centred care and their innovative, collaborative approach to supporting individuals across Erewash. The team consistently demonstrates compassion, creativity, and a deep commitment to empowering people. Their strength-based approach not only provides support but also fosters resilience, dignity, and long-term positive change. Every individual’s voice is heard and valued, thanks to the team’s emphasis on thoughtful and respectful communication throughout assessments and daily interactions. Erewash START embraces change and continuously seeks ways to improve and adapt. Their close collaboration with health colleagues ensures a joined-up approach to care, enhancing outcomes for those they support. Joint training initiatives have strengthened partnerships and shared understanding across services, while occupational therapist-led demonstrations have equipped enablement support workers with practical skills and insights to deliver even more effective, personalised care. Teamwork is at the heart of their success. The collective effort of the team is reflected in the outcomes they achieve—nearly half of the individuals they support regain their independence, and many others experience a significant reduction in the level of care required over their reablement period. Through personalised support, collaborative goal setting, and a strong belief in each person’s potential, the team helps individuals rebuild confidence and essential skills. Whether navigating complex cases, piloting new strategies, sharing knowledge, or supporting one another, Erewash START works with unity and purpose to transform lives. We are proud to nominate them for this award and to celebrate the incredible impact they continue to make in our community.
CST Insurance Recoveries Team, Debt Management, Financial Exchequer Services
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: CST Insurance Recoveries Team sits within the Debt Management Team - Exchequer Financial Services. The CST Insurance Recoveries Team is responsible for dealing with all Place third party insurance claims in relation to losses incurred as a direct result of a road traffic incident. Derbyshire County Council as Highway Authority, is responsible for over 3,500 miles of carriageway and footways and has on average 600 accidents a year on the highway. Why is this team so valuable to Derbyshire County Council? Over the last three financial years this team has recovered in excess of 1.5 million pounds for this authority. Derbyshire County Council does not hold insurance cover for immobile property and therefore the only option is to recover as a third-party claim from the persons responsible / motor vehicle insurance policy. With continuing budget costs, it is vital that Derbyshire County Council recovers / claw back as much cash as they possibly can. Losses can still be recovered for a period of six years post-incident. The team is a highly self-motivated, driven team with a strong internal drive and enthusiasm to achieve goals, without constant encouragement or supervision. As a team they are proactive, take initiative, and actively seek out opportunities to improve workflow and contribute to the team's overall success. The CST Insurance Recoveries Team is always looking for ways to improve their skills and knowledge, contributing to personal and team growth. This team has been able to bounce back from challenges and view setbacks as learning opportunities. As a very small team, they continuously review and refine the process, focus on regular feedback, open communication, and collaborative decision-making to ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards shared goals. This team also ensures that they remain accountable to the public for the actions and decisions made.
Fleet Team
Nominated by: Heather Gaunt
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: I am nominating the Fleet Team for the High Performing Team Award. Throughout the past couple of years it has been challenging to keep and recruit staff, which has meant at times there have been minimum numbers of people at the workshops and in the office at times. During this time I have witnessed just how this team have been able to come together to make the most challenging situation work. Workshop managers liaising between each other to determine the most effective way they could help another workshop, mechanics, parts officers and drivers going above and beyond to ensure that the maintenance of vehicles was completed in the most timely manner so that vehicles had the minimum downtime possible giving the least impact to users. The office staff who support the workshops made sure they were in constant contact with them to ensure they have had all the help and support needed to keep things running as smoothly as possible. Providing assistance and support to all departments within the Council who operate or require vehicles. The Management Team have been amazingly supportive to the whole team and have been there with help (even donning an overall and wielding tools until late into the night to get vehicles completed on time) or an ear just to listen to frustrations. A great team to be a part of.
Amber Valley START
Nominated by: Jackie Chamberlain
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I would like to nominate Amber Valley START for the High Performing Team Award due to their commitment, dedication and hard work in serving the Amber Valley community. All team members have remained focused on the development of the service since it's conception in 2024. Although the team has faced many challenges along the way, peers have willingly come together to offer ideas and seek satisfactory resolutions. The Team work collaboratively, striving to reduce dependence and improve outcomes for people in Derbyshire, whilst delivering cost effective and innovative ways of meeting needs. Amber Valley START have developed good working relationship with partners. This has been recognised by the team’s continuous engagement and regular communication between organisations. This focus has supported mutual agreements where different ways of working and collaborative decisions have been made for the benefit of the person and each partner. It is impressive to see how working together has and continues to achieve/ produce some great results. No matter what grade or position a person holds in the team, mutual respect is visibly recognised. All staff acknowledge the value of each other and the benefits of working in a multidisciplinary team. Champion roles and support networks have been developed to not only help to improve knowledge and skills of staff members, but also to offer mutual support to help improve confidence, competence and mental wellbeing. Amber Valley START is very fortunate to be led by a brilliant Senior Practitioner and Enablement Support Team Manager. Each professional has a separate skill set which enhances the team’s development, promoting a better understanding between staff roles and responsibilities and in seeking to achieve improved service delivery. Amber Valley START should be proud of their achievements in the short time they have been together and I recommend they be considered for this award.
North West Reactive Team and Schedulers
Nominated by: Neil Crapper
Department: Place
Reason for nomination: The North West Reactive team have worked well with the change in Recording systems from Confirm to Alloy being one of the areas that first had this new system and worked through problems with little guidance in the early stages of this being rolled out. Not complaining but finding ways to make it work and adapt themselves to the new system. This also includes the Schedulers which are part of our team really that have done the same. All have worked well together to increase the way the amount of potholes done and how its recorded. This is still on going and we are all learning with operatives stepping up and challenging themselves to help with this service.
Strategic Intent Team in Public Health
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Strategic Intent team are vital to support the smooth running of the Public Health department. Over the last 12 months they have played a key role in ensuring that the first Public Health Strategic Plan was finalised and approved by Corporate Management Team and Cabinet. This required the team to take a lead on the co-ordination and project management for the development of the Plan, working with teams and managers across the department to ensure deadlines were understood and met, and that the Strategic Plan was co-produced by colleagues across the department. Without the vital role that the team played on top of their business as usual work, then the department wouldn't have a clear plan that provides a focus for the work of the department over the next few years. The team evidenced excellent communication skills, including leading difficult conversations with managers to make sure development stayed on track, and used a number of innovative approaches to facilitate co-production and progress development of the plan. The team also held themselves and others to account - at times I'm sure this was challenging and frustrating for the team, however their supportive nature was well-received and valued by all those involved in the Strategic Plan's development. This has been delivered within the context of staff changes throughout the year which meant the team were working with reduced capacity for significant parts of the year. I'm very grateful for the team's hard work, and I hope they're proud of the result.
Property Tree Team
Nominated by: Stephen Brown
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: Led by Ged Roberts the Property Tree team have once again gone over and above expectations to deliver an excellent service for the people of Derbyshire and the Council.
The team of highly trained tree surgeons are based North and South of the county and undertake general maintenance, management, emergency call out and health and safety works to the council’s tree assets in order to maintain a safe environment for all.
The team has again excelled this year especially on emergency work during inclement weather events such as high winds, rain and floods. This work is further impacted by the high volume of Ash Die Back affected trees which complicates the process of felling and increases the risk and number of fallen and damaged trees.
The team are on call as part of the council’s emergency plan for severe weather events. Linking closely with Place colleagues, the team are called out at all hours, in all weathers to fallen or dangerous trees across the county. Often working in very challenging conditions, the team work with speed and efficiency to clear trees from the public highway to maintain vital transport links for emergency services.
The team have regularly dealt with over 100 incidents within a 24 hour period, showing tremendous commitment and dedication to the task in hand. In addition to the planned response, the team deal with events as they drive between calls, picking up as they go to bring real efficiency to the overall operation and maintain safety.
The highly trained and skilled team work closely together to consistently deliver excellent results year on year working collaboratively with Place colleagues and subcontractors for the benefit of Derbyshire residents.
Asset Management Team Property Maintenance
Nominated by: Helen Forster
Department: Corporate Services and Transformation
Reason for nomination: Property SMT nominate the Buxton Museum Property Team has demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication, collaboration, and high performance in the successful vacation of a property that had been occupied for over 50 years. Their tireless efforts, innovative problem-solving, and unwavering accountability ensured that the property was vacated within an extremely tight timeframe, directly facilitating the completion of the sale and supporting the Council’s financial sustainability. This mixed team—including the Asset Management Team, Property Maintenance Team, and Museum professionals—exemplified cross-functional excellence, working seamlessly together under intense pressure. When the property’s purchaser unexpectedly required the complete removal of all fixtures and fittings, the team faced a daunting challenge. The scale of this task was immense, involving decades of accumulated materials, artifacts, and equipment. Yet, despite these difficulties, the team rose to the occasion, going beyond expectations by voluntarily working long hours and weekends to meet the deadline.
Led by Jo Hollick in Asset Management and Steve Keeble in Property Maintenance, the team demonstrated exemplary leadership, coordination, and teamwork. With over 20 staff members involved in physically demanding removal tasks across four floors of a complex building layout, their shared commitment and collaboration ensured a smooth and efficient transition. The atmosphere was a shining example of how diverse professionals can unite toward a common goal, embodying a true spirit of camaraderie, perseverance, and operational excellence. This achievement not only safeguarded the timely completion of the property sale—preventing substantial financial and legal consequences—but also reinforced the Council’s ability to maintain a sustainable financial footing. The Buxton Museum Property Team’s unwavering dedication, innovative approach, and accountable execution deserve the highest recognition. Their commitment to excellence in asset management, property maintenance, and team cohesion is an inspiration, setting the benchmark for outstanding performance across departments.
Lea Green Centre
Nominated by: Dan Riley - nominating on behalf of White Hall Centre
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: We would like to nominate Lea Green Centre due to the outstanding support that they have given us over the past 12 months. Firstly, Vicky, Wilf and Paul the centre managers have always been there for us to help us to manage the significant challenges that we have been facing. They have given us support including advising us on managing tricky situations and lending us equipment and staff when we were short. Ultimately, this has saved the county council a significant amount of money and has allowed us to uphold our commitment to high quality service delivery. Secondly, Heather has been invaluable in supporting us with our I.T. systems. She has supported our teams with getting to grips with our booking system (Cinolla) and helped us to make best use of the system’s functionality. The biggest success was in introducing a new booking system which significantly reduced the administration burden on both our service users and the office team. This has allowed us to continue to increase our provision without having to increase the size of our office team. She has also been extremely supportive with our website and has both helped us maximise the functionality of our existing site as well as supporting us to procure a new one. Thirdly, Steven and Pauline have been instrumental in supporting our new in post business services officers, especially with understanding SAP and ensuring our office systems remain compliant with DCC policy and procedures. Finally, we would like to thank the front-line staff that come to support us. Lea Green’s instructors have been crucial to us covering long term absences and we are grateful that, despite having to travel a long distance, they have done so with a high standard of professionalism and enthusiasm. Also, to the catering team who helped us out of a tight sport in the school holidays. This meant that we were able to honour a booking that we would have otherwise had to cancel.
Welfare Rights Service Social Care Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Welfare Rights Service Social Care team deals with referrals for benefits advice and maximisation. The majority of referrals come from social work teams relating to vulnerable Derbyshire residents. The number of social work referrals has been steadily rising over the years and the team dealt with 2767 social work referrals in 2024-25. It’s a small team of only 8 Welfare Benefits Officers covering the whole of Derbyshire. Many of the referrals involve complex problems which require detailed and up to date knowledge of the welfare benefits system. The team work collaboratively with social work teams to ensure that the best possible service is delivered to the service users. The Welfare Rights Service was restructured in October 2024 and the team have adapted positively to changes. It’s a very supportive team where knowledge and experiences are shared and all members have a shared goal of providing an excellent service to service users. Particular challenges over the past year have been: migration to Universal Credit (UC) - the team have helped service users to claim UC, to ensure awards are correct & maximised and to provide support when things go wrong e.g. when claims are closed unfairly; and delays with Pension Credit (PC) claims e.g. a service user was supported to make a complaint to PC about the delays in processing her claim and was eventually awarded PC of £127.59 per week with an arrears payment of £9926.91. Other highlights have been supporting services users to maximise Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) payments – two cases involved complications that the service users would have found impossible to navigate alone. In one case, the service user’s ESA increased from £159.05 to £240.55 per week with £18,719.40 in arrears. In the other case, the service user received £40k in arrears dating back to 2013.
Ada Belfield Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Team Ada Belfield are a true inspiration to all and a team that the council should be proud of. They have all kept powering through the uncertain times looming over them whilst at the same time maintaining the high levels of care that they always have. Ensuring stimulating and inclusive activities are provided for all clients. Staff are supportive to everyone that uses the setting and always have a listening ear. The team of staff all value each other no matter what level they work at and their trust in each other is easy to see.
The Willows, Peak Lodge
Nominated by: Louise Young
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: 'Team Willows' always go above and beyond for the young people they care for. A home for children with disabilities and individual needs in full time or short break care. Each young person is treated as a unique individual, offered opportunities they might not be able to access otherwise, and supported to reach their best potential. Successes include supporting a young lady who moved in full time in July 2024, and within 7 months has started using more words and putting sentences together, is now toilet trained after 12 years in pads, her behaviours have decreased immensely and is now able to access more activities in the community. A transition to the school onsite once took up to an hour, she now asks for school and skips up happily with her carers. Taking the 'whole child' approach, they work with other professionals to ensure the young people are getting the best out of life, linking in with parents to find out how to move forward with their care, and sharing ideas back to parents with what is working well at The Willows. One young lady who couldn't access the community due to her anxieties and personal behaviours, now goes out with the support of her wheelchair accessing shops, wheelchair cycling activities, and even went for a weekend away with the team. This then spurred her family on to take her away due to the progression and achievements the team had evidenced in her positive events. The home has been open since 2012, and continues to forever grow. As their manager would say 'we don't do barriers', and with the support from her and her deputy managers, the whole team have a positive, loving ethos to a bunch of fantastic young people. Every day is different, with plenty of challenges along the way, but they never give up on an individual and strive for excellence!
The National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) team
Nominated by: Trudie Wilkinson
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The NCMP team work collaboratively with schools to ensure child data accuracy is achieved and to have Live Life Better Derbyshire representation at school led events to raise parents awareness of health improvement services. Collectively they support each other to learn new skills and to achieve team targets whilst taking accountability for their own targets and performance. Individual in the team will come forward to suggest new ways of doing things if they identify a better way of working. The team work alongside the Healthier Futures team. New processes have been embraced by the whole team which has streamlined communication with NHS partners, and we have seen an increase in the number of parents stating NCMP as the reason why they are aware of Healthier Futures.
Healthier Weight Health Improvement Advisors (Live Life Better Derbyshire)
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Healthier Weight team provide a high level of support, help and advice for all of LLBD clients who are seeking a healthier sustainable weight loss. To achieve this, the team have embraced various amendments over the past year to enhance the service. They have been part of the decisions and development, facilitation and ongoing evaluations. These amendments support someone to lose weight sustainably and apply the various psychological techniques which enhance the healthier habits for lifelong change. The team are supportive in a respectful and non-judgemental manner of their clients, each other, any change to the service and the management team. Which shows in some of the feedback below. “Live Life better Derbyshire has helped me in so main ways health, physically and mentally too. Everyone I have come into contact with from Live Life Better Derbyshire have been so helpful, kind and motivating”. The group was very supportive, full of knowledge, experience and no judgements. the facilitator was brilliant and got me thinking in different ways about my habits, behaviour, exercise and a lot more. I’ve come away from the last session treating myself with a new book rather than food & drink!”
Occupational Health Team
Nominated by: John Hopkinson
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: The Occupational Health Team are a very important part of the Councils wellbeing strategy, they support employees to ensure they are fit healthy to be at work and are key to the sickness absence rates being reduced. The deal with very complexed and diverse contracts and for such a small team deal with an extremely high volume of work. The business services team that support this function have very high technical ability and knowledge. This team supports the whole of the Council in so many ways. They richly deserve this award.
Smithybrook View Extra Care CWCs
Nominated by: Stephanie Watson
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The staff team at Smithybrook View Extra Care have improved their work massively since I started in post almost 4 years ago.
Staff have been following instructions from their managers and implementing good changes. Staff have taken well to the changes that have been happening in SBV and continue to improve their work. I don't think the staff get the recognition they deserve for all their hard work.
Childrens Residential Business Services
Nominated by: Clare Barnett
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: The residential business support team were significantly reduced through the business services review and they went from a team of 13 to 4. They have adapted to these changes whilst still providing an outstanding support service to our children’s homes whilst supporting and helping each other.
They are like a little community and are willing to embrace whatever is thrown at them, they are working towards and striving to gain consistent approach across these homes and are teaching and mentoring each other to maintain continuity and stability for the service.
They are an absolute pleasure to manage and have done this whilst not having a consistent direct line manager, they are a credit to Derbyshire County Council and should be recognised for all that they do by going above and beyond for the children’s residential homes service.
Amber Valley South Social Work Team
Nominated by: Wendy Kirkman
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: I am nominating Amber Valley South Team because they are fabulous. A group of unique individuals with differing skill sets working in partnership to deliver high quality service provision to the residents, in conjunction with the council plan and practice framework.
Life is tough in frontline fieldwork - the crisis in care, endless changes in practice, continuous stress yet this wonderful group ensure we have no waiting lists for assessments/reviews, safeguardings are thoroughly completed within timescales to a high standard to ensure the welfare of vulnerable adults, person-centred and strengths based support plans are up to date and although appear to play hard, we work extremely hard too as ambassadors for the authority.
There is a commitment to shared goals. We focus on learning through weekly CPD sessions, each worker taking turns to present a topic for research and discussion. Social Workers can use this as part of their learning record for the professional body.
We have a high ratio of Apprentice Social Workers and students with responsibility for inductions, mentoring and supervisions a joint effort.
There is a strong team ethos and wellbeing is high on our agenda. We are proud to have a low sickness record and retain workers. Students are eager to remain in the team long after placement ends.
Weekly time to talk sessions are run by our team mental health champions. Daily checks in on each other ensure no one gets stressed without it being noticed/addressed. The weekly quiz is a must with a competitive edge. Laughter, banter and camaraderie is constantly present.
Small gestures go a long way... a bunch of flowers here, random tat there, team development days, craft sessions. You name it, we do it. Success is celebrated and we see results of their labours. In 2024, I was overwhelmed to be nominated as Team Leader of the Year and win the National Award. It wouldn’t have been possible without the support and commitment of the South Team They are not only colleagues and workmates but friends too.
South Derbyshire North Social Work Team
Nominated by: Anonymous
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: Nominating South Derbyshire North Social Work Team for their hard work and dedication to each other and the community.
They hold themselves and others accountable and will step up/in when needed to support others. As a team the level of support they provide each other, is undeniably fantastic, no one is shy to stand in when someone is going through a rough patch (grievance, sickness). The team is a high performing team, ensuring work is completed in a timely manner and supporting other teams as and when required.
The Outback
Nominated by: Vicky Wilson
Department: Children’s Services
Reason for nomination: Over the last 18 months, The Outback have navigated through some very difficult times. Faced with the possibility of the service closure, uncertainty, possible redundancy or re-deployment when Derbyshire County Council were reviewing the service as part of the potential cuts/budget constraints.
Despite the challenges, the Team have consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to the young people and their families they support, along with close collaboration with other professionals, to ensure the delivery of tailored services, to meet the ever-changing needs of children with disabilities and their families, across the county. Their holistic approach has not only improved outcomes for young people and their families, the team, have also set a high standard, for service delivery and success within the sector.
Following the service review, the team have been concentrating more on supporting young people at the Edge of Care. This puts the team at the forefront of working together with families, to effect positive change and in turn prevent children and young people coming into the care of the Local Authority. This approach also avoids traumatic experiences for the families and saves the Council money through the cost avoidance involved in placing children and young people in expensive residential provisions. Children and young people are also able to remain at home, where they can be cared for and their needs met safely by their family.
An example of their commitment would be captured earlier this year, when The Outback team stepped in to support a young person, to provide emergency support over the Easter weekend and the following weeks. Due to multiple placement breakdowns, and there being no availability of foster carers, the team offered to continue the support the young person, providing consistency and stability for them at a time when there was so many changing faces and uncertainty in his life. After multiple failed searches for a new placement, one of the team members and their partner, stepped in and provided the young person with safe place to stay. This provided the Social Work Team with a longer period to conduct searches, ensuring the right placement was identified for this young person. The team have provided support based at The Outback for this little boy every day, including weekends to ensure he maintains some routine and consistency in his life at this difficult time. This structure and stability has supported him to become a more regulated, happy boy who seeks affection/interaction from the adults around him.
Week in, week out, the team step up with any spare time they have, to provide care and consistency for the young people they support. They are all truly dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the young people they support and with a wide range of experience, expertise and skills, they continue to provide the highest level of support to young people and their families.
The Outback, Children with Disabilities Team exemplifies the values of dedication, hard work, passion and collaboration. Their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of children with disabilities and their families makes them a deserving candidate for the High-Performing Team Award.
HR Business Support
Nominated by: James Hodges
Department: Corporate Services & Transformation
Reason for nomination: I'm nominating the HR Business Support team for the High Performing Team award for the fantastic work they have done over the last 4 years since coming together as one team, and continue to undertake for the HR function. With a team of just over 14 FTE, the team carries out a wide range of activities without which teams in HR would not be able to operate.
This includes a significant amount of work that goes into the preparation for Shaping the Future and Leadership Forum events, as well as the employee roadshows last year and the Our Derbyshire Awards. The team prints, organises, arranges equipment, and carries out the purchasing tasks that help these events to go ahead.
The team are at the frontline of the Occupational Health department, helping to keep our employees safe and well, managing all the bookings, filings and phone calls. From an operational perspective they support employee relation hearings and appeals and Resourcing Approvals, keeping these important and sensitive activities happening. This is alongside the venue booking, purchase requisitions, certificate ordering, first aid bookings, work experience and a whole host of other tasks they support with.
The team take ownership of the jobs they do, and are always on hand to answer questions. They are adaptable and really go the extra mile to meet customer expectations whether internally or with our external customers. This leads to really positive outcomes and experiences and helps the rest of the HR function to carry out their work effectively.
Derbyshire Discretionary Fund
Nominated by: Lois Race
Department: Adult Social Care and Health
Reason for nomination: The Derbyshire Discretionary Fund team are a high performing team who have delivered significant change with enthusiasm, effectiveness, and exceptional peer support. Following public consultation and Cabinet approval for an updated policy in July 2024, the team have embraced the work needed to deliver the change of policy framework in the autumn of 2024, whilst maintaining excellent service delivery, both in terms of efficient working and also empathetic and respectful contact with residents. This is a busy team dealing with often complex situations and vulnerable applicants. They assessed over 32,000 applications during 2024-25 – making over 19,000 crisis payment awards and 912 essential item / re-settlement grants awards.
Delivering the change to the new policy framework required undertaking training on the “new” whilst continuing to deliver excellent service to applicants, and the team did not miss a beat – taking it all in their stride with good humour, excellent peer support, a collaborative approach, and many lunch fuddles.
The team’s service delivery metrics continued to be met throughout. Feedback from the team about the ‘change process’ demonstrated excellent empowered leadership by the Team Manager and Team Leaders, and the value of effective, clear, and timely communication. The team felt ‘safe’, supported, and involved in the change. The team have since embraced further change with the addition of an online portal for residents which, since launching in April 2025, has seen 40% channel shift from telephony to online in a matter of weeks. They have remained engaged in working together to iron out any glitches and ensure that residents continue to receive an excellent and timely response.