Derbyshire County Council has been highly commended in a national award for its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The council was honoured in the MJ Local Government Achievement Awards ‘Public Health Improvement’ category for its county-wide response to the pandemic and influence on national decision making.

The judges noted that the council's response, led by Director of Public Health Dean Wallace, had prioritised making a difference on the ground and not only supported those directly affected but also concentrated on helping people to stop smoking and lose weight, which are known contributors to the severity of Covid infection.

The council's extra support in providing help such as shopping, dog walking and companionship phone calls to those needing support during self isolation was also noted.

Councillor Carol Hart, Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, said recognition of the team's hard work was 'very well deserved'.

She said: “I am incredibly proud of the work that our dedicated council colleagues have done over the last 18 months in helping Derbyshire, and the East Midlands, to come through the pandemic so far and in continuing their tireless work to manage infection rates in the county.

“I know there have been very, very many long days and sleepless nights for them and they have put their whole focus on supporting and reassuring our residents, working on the ground to reduce the spread of the virus and influencing national decisions to encourage the right response across the country.

“Derbyshire, like every part of the country and the world, has lost people before their time and, alongside celebrating the recognition we have received today, we remember all of those who have been lost and thank all of our residents, our partners and our communities for working with us through such unprecedented times.”

Details of the award finalists can be found on the MJ award website.

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