The MJ Awards always bring out the best in people. Not just because you get to see so much of the hard work from councils that is rarely spoken of, but because everyone is there to be part of the celebration.
I noticed something different this year – people seemed more relaxed, proud of their achievements (award or no award) and above all, hopeful for the future. Maybe it was because the General Election was around the corner at the time of the event, but I also think the narrative is shifting.
Rather than talk about the weight of Covid, a decade and a half of financial pressure and political uncertainty, more and more councils, partners and communities are wanting to demonstrate the human qualities behind their best work, not just the work itself.
Take the winner of the Transforming Lives award – the Wirral Family Toolbox. The council, voluntary community and social enterprise and other partners have worked hard to change the way they provide support to children and families and have changed the lives of more than 450 families since it begun.
They have removed strict assessment criteria, reduced handoffs between services and instilled a supportive strength-based approach. All fantastic stuff. But it was my conversation with the Wirral team after they won the award that really struck me. Against all odds – Covid, funding, bureaucracy – not one but all of the partners involved took a leap of faith to do the right thing. They were brave.
We saw 48 entries demonstrating bravery this year – the most we have ever seen. There are hundreds more around the country that none of us know about, but local people and communities are benefiting from.
The best of local government are the people quietly going about their work AND the people shouting loudly. It doesn't matter which one you are, just know that we see you and thank you.
Sanjay Mackintosh is managing director of Roretti
