Civil servants win prizes

It has not been a good couple of months for those toiling away in the public sector.

Budget cuts, job cuts, worries about pensions, it all takes its toll on our hard-working civil servants.

Last night HM the Queen showed her support when the Civil Service Awards took place in Buckingham Palace.

Now in their fifth year these awards celebrate and recognise individuals and teams who have shown outstanding achievement in delivering excellence in public service and showcasing innovation.

The winners included a prison governor who has driven down drug-use and staff sickness, the Free School Meals Project Team who have helped parents to access the service and the Apache Helicopter Team which improved the efficient use of the helicopters in combat.

Sir Gus O'Donnell, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service, who presented the awards, said:

"The Civil Service Awards are one of the highlights of the Civil Service calendar. The quality and quantity of nominations has increased year-on-year, and this year we received over 800 entries from a wide range of departments and organisations.

"Listening to the success stories of how civil servants have gone beyond the everyday to help change people's lives makes me proud to lead the Civil Service. I know many of us are facing challenging and uncertain times but the nominees tonight have showcased how civil servants continue to work with pace and passion to deliver an outstanding service."

Francis Maude, Minister for the Cabinet Office, who presented the Public Value award added:

"Since May I have been impressed by the dedication, energy and creativity of civil servants. I am real believer that the British system of a permanent Civil Service is one of the jewels in our constitution and one that is admired throughout the world. Its values of political impartiality, advancement on merit and public service ethos are to be as cherished and nurtured today as ever. The teams and individuals who are being recognised this evening epitomise these values and, across the country, have made a huge difference to many people's lives."

After the awards ceremony, the Queen, Prince Philip, Nick Clegg and Theresa May attended a drinks reception for winners and nominees.

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