Somerset Council is in the running for two national awards.
The council has been nominated as part of the 2026 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards, which are among the most respected in local government.
The awards honour councils that deliver innovation and measurable impact for residents.
Somerset's nominations include 'Our Story,' an honest fostering recruitment campaign shortlisted for campaign of the year, and a submission for the diversity and inclusion award, recognising work to improve employment opportunities for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Cllr Heather Shearer, lead member for children and families at Somerset Council, said: "Being shortlisted for two LGC Awards reflects the real world impact of services that support some of Somerset’s most vulnerable residents, helping more children to grow up in stable, caring homes within their own communities, and enabling more young people with SEND to build skills, confidence and move into paid employment.
"These nominations recognise the strength of partnership working across Somerset, bringing together the council, employers, schools, families and communities to achieve better outcomes, while making the best possible use of public money.
"It’s wonderful to see these services and teams recognised for the difference they are making to young lives across Somerset every day."
With more than 650 Looked After Children in Somerset, and a wider decline in the number of foster carers across England, the need for more foster carers is increasingly urgent, both locally and nationally.
The 'Our Story' campaign was developed in response to this need and shaped by feedback from foster carers, offering a realistic view of both the challenges and rewards of fostering.
By offering a clear and realistic picture, it helped people make informed decisions about whether fostering is right for them, while supporting better outcomes for children who need stable, loving homes.
For more information on fostering, visit fosteringinsomerset.org.uk.
The second nomination, for the diversity and inclusion award, recognises Somerset Council’s 'Imagine the Possibilities' programme.
The scheme supports young people with SEND to transition from education into paid employment.
It does so by breaking down barriers to work, particularly in a large and mostly rural county where distance, limited transport, and fewer local opportunities can present significant challenges.
The programme has expanded from a single supported internship to 15, now helping more than 100 young people annually.
It aims to equip them with confidence, independence, and real workplace skills.
Independent research indicates that 'Imagine the Possibilities' delivers social value beyond employment, including improved wellbeing, lower reliance on public services, and increased participation in the local economy.
The LGC Awards received more than 1,000 entries from councils across the country.
The winners will be announced in June 2026.
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