Sharing the venue with some of the best and brightest in local authorities was a real honour, and it really help stoke the fire of innovation and possibility in me.

The MJ Awards is a fabulous event in recognising and celebrating the often unseen but vital work behind the scenes at local authorities across the UK. Being involved has given our organisation a boost and encouraged us to continue with our endeavours in creative health work that supports vulnerable people in society.

"We were absolutely delighted to attend the MJ Achievement Awards at the Park Plaza Hotel on Friday 20th June. The event was a true celebration of the dedication and innovation taking place across local government, and it was an honour to be among such inspiring colleagues from around the country.

The evening was impeccably organised — from the warm welcome to the uplifting hosting by Sally Phillips, it felt both special and inclusive throughout. Being named the winner of the Innovation in Building Diversity and Inclusion award for our Count Me In: A Head Start Approach was a moment we’ll never forget. It was both humbling and energising to have our work recognised on a national stage.

On behalf of Inspiring Music and Central Bedfordshire Council, thank you for providing such a valuable platform to highlight the work happening in local services. The recognition has meant a great deal to our team and has already helped spark wider conversations and connections around inclusive practice in music education."

As a first time attendee it was a wonderful experience and professionally delivered with a great host.

You live in your own bubbles and don't realise all the amazing work that is being undertaken by local authorities, and partners in their areas, to make people's lives better.  The positivity and pride were palpable and a pleasure to see.

A good event which has inspired us to come back with more entries next year!

It was an excellent opportunity to meet like minded, passionate colleagues from across the Country. The day served as a reminder that we're part of a much larger team working to support and improve the lives of those in the communities we serve.

It was a great experience and a lovely venue also nice to be able to speak to people from other areas about the works that are being done throughout the country.

It was great to be acknowledged for our programme of work. Our whole council is sharing in the celebrations and delighted with the recognition.

Morale boosting for those in attendance, positive recognition by their peers, local and national of their impact on their communities.

Within our local authority, we work above and beyond to support our families. Our service relies heavily on parents who volunteer to facilitate evidenced based parenting support programmes for Sutton's parents.

Our volunteers are provided with intensive training and supervision in order to provide the best service possible to our residents. They go above and beyond in their own time, without pay and they are fully committed in helping families to thrive.

Today, we were able to bring some of our volunteers to the award ceremony to thank them for all they do for Sutton's families. We were truly honoured to be shortlisted and although we didn't win in our category, we all left the venue feeling like winners.

Such a wonderful day where we were all spoilt. We absolutely loved it and it has made us even more determined to keep going. We all felt valued.