Categories
There are eight award categories and each award has its own criteria.
The judging panel will use the criteria to select shortlisted nominations and winners. When you make your nomination, remember to give examples of how your nominee meets the criteria. We are looking for good stories where someone's work has really made a difference to customers or other staff members.
This award celebrates fresh thinking that helps us work smarter and serve Lancashire better.
It’s for individuals who’ve come up with new ideas or creative solutions that make a real difference, whether that’s improving a service, solving a tricky problem, or finding better value for money.
Nominees might have:
- introduced a new idea, process or tool that improves how we work
- found a creative way to overcome a challenge or remove a barrier
- made a positive difference to residents, colleagues or communities
- inspired others to think differently or try something new
We’re looking for someone who isn't afraid to challenge the usual way of doing things, who spot opportunities, take initiative, and bring others along with them.
This award celebrates teams that consistently deliver excellent results and work brilliantly together.
It’s open to any group of colleagues, whether they work in the same service or came together for a specific project, and no matter the size of the team. What they have in common is outstanding teamwork and a clear, positive impact.
Nominees might show:
- strong collaboration and mutual support
- consistent delivery of high-quality work
- a positive team culture built on shared values
- a clear impact on services or outcomes for residents
We’re looking for teams who bring out the best in each other, overcome challenges together, and make a real difference through the way they work.
This award is for someone who makes work better for others
This award recognises someone who goes out of their way to support colleagues and create a positive place to work. They’re the kind of person who lifts others up. That might be through offering a helping hand, being a trusted mentor, or simply making people feel welcome and respected.
They might have supported a colleague through a difficult time, helped someone grow in their role, or consistently shown kindness and empathy in their day-to-day work. Their actions help build trust, boost morale, and make the workplace better for everyone.
Nominees might show:
- acts of kindness and support that make others feel valued
- behaviours that build trust, morale and a sense of belonging
- a commitment to helping others succeed and grow
- creates a welcoming and respectful workplace
This award recognises someone who stays calm and focused when things change or get tough.
They bring steadiness and strength when it’s needed most, staying calm under pressure, adapting to change, and helping others do the same. When things are uncertain or challenging, they keep going and bring others with them.
They might have supported a team through a difficult time, helped solve problems in a crisis, or simply shown quiet resilience day after day. Their optimism, focus and steady approach make a real difference to the people around them.
Nominees might show:
- responds calmly and constructively to change
- supports others through uncertainty
- finds solutions under pressure
- demonstrates perseverance and optimism
This award is for someone whose work has made a real difference in Lancashire communities.
It recognises an individual or team whose work has had a positive impact on local people or places. They go above and beyond to support communities, improving lives, strengthening connections, and helping make Lancashire a better place to live.
They might have led or supported a local project, worked closely with residents to understand their needs, or built strong relationships that make a lasting difference. Whether through direct support or behind-the-scenes effort, their contribution is felt in the community.
Nominees might show:
- improves lives or services in the community
- builds strong relationships with residents
- supports local projects or initiatives
- goes above and beyond to help others
This award celebrates a leader who brings out the best in others.
It recognises a manager, supervisor or team leader who leads with fairness, respect and integrity. They support their team, build trust and help people grow. They set a strong example and create an environment where others can thrive.
They might inspire confidence during challenging times, encourage development through coaching or mentoring, or consistently motivate their team to achieve great results. Their leadership helps people feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work.
Nominees might show:
- inspires and motivates their team
- leads by example with fairness and respect
- builds trust and supports development
- helps their team achieve great results
This award is for someone who’s new to their role and has made a strong, positive start. They must have been in their role for less than two years.
This award recognises someone who has recently joined the council or stepped into a new role and made an immediate, meaningful impact. They bring energy, fresh ideas and a clear commitment to doing their best.
They might have built strong relationships with colleagues, contributed new thinking to a project, or shown real enthusiasm for learning and growing. Their positive attitude and early achievements show great promise for the future.
Nominees might show:
- Shows enthusiasm and commitment
- Brings fresh ideas and energy
- Builds good relationships with colleagues
- Makes a positive impact early on
This award recognises someone who’s worked with Lancashire County Council for 20 years or more. Over that time, they’ve shown long-term commitment, made a lasting impact, and helped shape the services we provide.
They’ve supported many people over the years—living our values, contributing to teams, and being a steady presence through change. Their dedication has helped build the council’s success and strengthened the communities we serve.
Nominees might show:
- Long-term commitment and loyalty
- Positive influence over time
- Contribution to services or teams
- Embodiment of council values
Get in touch
If you need further advice or have any problems completing the form please email us at staffawards@lancashire.gov.uk.
Nominate now
Does a team or individual deserve a special thank you for a job well done? Nominate them for a Staff Excellence Award to give them the recognition they deserve.
Get in touch
If you need further advice please email us at staffawards@lancashire.gov.uk.
Keep updated
Look out for news about the Staff Excellence Awards on the intranet and Schools' Portal.