Launch of Inspire Awards for 2026

We are delighted to launch this year’s Inspire Awards celebrating the hard work, commitment and achievements of East Lothian Council employees.

They recognise individuals and teams making an exceptional contribution to our organisation's work for the benefit of the communities we serve.

Any employee can nominate colleagues who they believe have gone the extra mile to deliver excellent service or make a positive difference to the delivery of high-quality services.

Chief Executive Laurence Rockey said:

“Last year’s inaugural Inspire Awards ceremony was a fantastic occasion, when we celebrated the professionalism and commitment of so many colleagues across the council. We had some great feedback on the awards and I’m really looking forward to the event taking place for a second successive year.

“There have been more brilliant achievements and successes over the last year and, despite a very challenging operating environment, our employees continue to demonstrate a relentless focus on providing the highest standard of service to East Lothian communities, highlighting our council values of Enabling, Leading and Caring in action.

“Please do take a look at the award categories and think about who you would like to nominate – we would love to hear from you.

“Everybody who lives, works in - or visits - East Lothian relies on at least some of the varied and essential services we provide. That’s why our Inspire Awards are a great way of recognising the excellent work that takes place 365 days of the year.”

Who is eligible to be nominated?

Any East Lothian Council or East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership employee can be nominated. Any employee can make a nomination.

How will the winners be decided?

Nominations will be judged by a panel including the Executive Leadership Team, Provost and a Trade Union representative.

How will the winners be announced?

All finalists will be invited to a ceremony in Haddington Corn Exchange on the afternoon of Monday 26 October, where winners will then be announced. Details and photographs will then be published in Inform.

How can I make a nomination?

Employees can make as many nominations as they wish across seven different categories. This can be done using an online form from today until 5pm on Wednesday, 2 September. 

What are the categories?

• Customer Excellence Award - an individual or team who has truly excelled in supporting and helping others, contributing to the delivery of quality service.
• Community Focus Award - an individual or team making a difference in the community by working collaboratively and effectively with our partners and local groups.
• Unsung Hero Award - an individual who works selflessly and shows dedication to their role without seeking recognition or acclaim.
• One Council Award - an individual or team who personifies our council values of Enabling, Leading and Caring by working collaboratively with colleagues in different areas to achieve shared outcomes.
• Sustainability and Efficiency Award - an individual or team who champions sustainability - whether it’s in relation to improving services, doing things more efficiently or protecting and enhancing the environment.
• Innovation Award - an individual or team demonstrating an innovative and inspirational approach in their work for the council to deliver for customers and communities.
• Team of the year - an award which recognises the importance of effective teamwork and employees working together to ensure continuous improvement, with a clear focus on getting things done for the benefit of others.
• Council employee of the year - this award will be presented to an outstanding employee nominated in one or more of the categories above. It recognises a standout and inspirational individual who has truly gone the extra mile to carry out their work to the highest level and whose efforts have been praised widely by their colleagues.