TheImprovement and Development Agency (IDeA) has announced the shortlist of authorities selected for round nine of the Beacon awards scheme. Altogether, 59 applications involving 70 local authorities have been shortlisted, and the winners will be announced next March. This year, the scheme attracted 143 applications involving 132 councils. The themes for round nine included dignity in care, tackling climate change, and transforming services. Now in its ninth year, the scheme promotes innovation and excellence in local government. It is a cross-government initiative, and ministers pick themes which relate to key areas for improving the quality of life and the work of local government. Sheffield City Council has been shortlisted for a maximum of three themes, while the following local authorities have been shortlisted for two – Bolton MBC, Coventry City Council, Croydon LBC, Darlington BC, Greenwich LBC, Leicester City Council, Nottingham City Council, Nottinghamshire CC and Sunderland City Council. The full shortlist is available online at www.localgov.co.uk.
