People are being asked to recognise a Medway Council employee who has gone above and beyond to help people living in the community.

The Make a Difference Awards celebrate successes and recognise the hard work and commitment of those working in the public sector.

The awards will show appreciation for a job well done and demonstrate the quality of people who work for the council.

Last year’s winners included an apprentice who was commended for her fantastic work with the Medway Safeguarding Children Board.

The apprentice was considered an asset to the team, exceeding expectations of the role which has gone on to be recognised both internally and externally by partners.

Making a Difference to Our Customers Lives award was won by an employee at Strood Sports Centre.

The employee has helped to change the lives of disabled people through dedication to fitness classes at the centre. This has instilled confidence and inspired customers to succeed in everything they do.

Council colleagues have been busy nominating and members of the public are also invited to do the same. The closing date for nominations is Friday, July 6.

The 10 categories are:

• Apprentice of the Year
• Customer Service
• Employee of the Year
• Inclusion and Diversity
• Innovation and Bright Idea
• Making a Difference to Our Customers Lives
• Manager of the Year
• Partnerships
• Team of the Year
• Unsung Hero

There is no limit to the number of nominations you can make and you can put forward the same person or team for more than one category.

To submit your nomination, visit the council’s website and complete the online form at medway.gov.uk/makeadifference

Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony on Friday, November 23 at the Corn Exchange, Rochester.

Neil Davies, chief executive of Medway Council, said: “The Make a Difference Awards are a great opportunity for our employees to be recognised for their hard work throughout the year.

“Many of our staff regularly go above and beyond to help people living in our communities and the awards highlight just some of their fantastic work.

“We are delighted to hold an event which recognises their outstanding commitment to serving the people of Medway.

“We are committed to providing support to people living, working, studying and visiting Medway and ensuring Medway is a place to be proud of.

“There are many worthy winners and this is the opportunity for the public, as well as colleagues, to submit nominations.”