The Chamberlain Awards are now firmly established as a high point of the council’s year. Now in their fourth year, the awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding contribution our talented and committed staff make to the lives of all those who live, work and take their leisure in Birmingham. Each year, the judges’ task becomes harder and harder as they consider the hundreds of nominations of teams and individuals who have gone the extra mile, innovated or succeeded against adversity. All truly follow in the footsteps of our city’s forefather, Joseph Chamberlain.

In many ways it has been a difficult year and it is a tribute to all staff that, irrespective of this, our services go from strength to strength. We are all dedicated to providing high-quality effective services. Without detracting at all from the achievement of our winners, I would like to thank all staff for their contribution. It is truly valued and appreciated.

‘Nothing succeeds like success’ goes the old adage. Building on the successes of the last four years I am confident that our council and our city will go on to still greater achievements. At the centre of this is our staff. In recognising their outstanding contribution I acknowledge the need to support everyone in reaching their full potential. Initiatives I’ve championed, such as BEST, InSource and a fairer payment system recognising individual contribution and competence, are evidence of this. Increasingly, staff and service users will reap the benefits of the Excellence in People Management programme.

So welcome, I hope you have a great evening. Let’s celebrate our pride in our city, our staff and our services.