The Merton Compact partnership – made up of Merton Council, NHS and PCT trusts, police, voluntary bodies and other agencies – has scooped a top accolade for its successful partnership working, ahead of every other London borough.
This is the first time the Compact organisation – a government initiative to promote partnership working between local government and voluntary and community bodies – has organised a series of London-wide awards. Previously, the awards were only handed out nationally – and for the last three years Merton has won the top prize.
Merton Council’s cabinet member for community safety and engagement, Councillor Tariq Ahmad, received the council’s latest award from Minister for the Third Sector, Kevin Brennan MP, at a special ceremony held at the capital’s City Hall. The award recognises the success Merton has had in embedding the principles of the Compact in its day to day working.
Cllr Ahmad said: “I am very proud that Merton Compact has won this award. Those involved have worked very hard in partnership with the police, local PCT and hospital trusts and other bodies, as well as with members of the voluntary sector, to provide the best possible services for our residents.
“In the past other councils have often come to Merton for advice on how best to work together and this award shows why.”
Chris Frost, Chief Executive of Merton Voluntary Services Council, said: “I am delighted we have won this award. It is a testament to all the hard work of everyone involved.”
The Minister for the Third Sector, Kevin Brennan MP said: “Compact Week celebrates ten years of the government’s solid partnership with the Third Sector. The government is more committed than ever to working with voluntary groups, charities and social enterprises to deliver public services that reach out and benefit people and society.
“The London Regional Compact Awards give us the chance to recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations in London who are devoted to supporting people, strengthening communities and making a real difference for London.”
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