The last group of finalists for The Outstanding People awards, which recognise employees for being a shining example in delivering services to the people of South Ayrshire, have been announced.
The finalists were selected from more than 130 Council employees who were nominated for an award, by members of the public, managers or colleagues who believed that they deserved recognition for the outstanding way they carry out their duties. They will join those already selected at The Outstanding People awards event on 5 December.
Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said: "Everyone who was nominated should be very proud of their achievement. The standard was very high with some employees being nominated more than once. I know that the judging panel thought long and hard before selecting the finalists.
"Our employees work very hard delivering services across the Council, often in challenging circumstances and an awards event to recognise those that go the extra mile is our way of saying thank you.
"Thank you to everyone who nominated an employee for an awards, and remember you can keep nominating for future awards.
"I look forward to the awards event later this year, it is an inspiring, uplifting and really pleasing to see our employees feel so happy to be valued for what they do well."
The finalists and their categories and a snapshot of their nominations are:
Service Excellence
- 'Munch Crunch' Project Team – providing targeted support to parents in learning about food, practical cooking and the importance of a balanced diet.
- Gavin Welsh - leadership of the South Ayrshire Percussion ensemble who represented South Ayrshire Schools at the national competition of the Royal Academy of music.
Innovation
- Jean Innes/Libraries Team – embracing the e-book revolution.
- Get on Your Bike Project Team - ongoing work to improve safety and facilities for cyclists in South Ayrshire, whilst encouraging more people to participate.
Equalities in Action
- Susan Hughes/Margaret Catterall – introduction of 'FIT' resource to support schools in dealing with Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Community equality issues.
- Girvan Resources Centre – establishing the Girvan Opportunities project following the withdrawal of further education services for young people with a learning disability in the Girvan area.
Sustainability
- Street Lighting Team – installation of new LED street lighting to considerably reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.
- John Ferguson – helping to promote wildlife diversity in South Ayrshire Council cemeteries.
Inspirational Young Employee
- Kristofor Breingan – awarded Apprentice of the Year at Reid Kerr College.
- Sarah Crawford – acting on own initiative to assist with fire warden duties during an evacuation at Burns House.