2 December 2026
Introducing Inspiring Women in Local Government, brought to you by LGC
Women are at the heart of local government – leading councils, transforming services, supporting communities and shaping the future of the sector.
While women are well represented across the workforce, representation alone does not guarantee equal visibility, progression or experience. Women remain less proportionately represented in some senior, political and traditionally male-dominated roles, while important work can go unrecognised and barriers around opportunity, confidence, caring responsibilities and workplace culture can persist.
The Inspiring Women in Local Government Awards celebrate the women, teams, allies and councils making an outstanding contribution at every level. From rising stars and returners to established leaders, innovators and those championing others, the awards recognise achievement, amplify role models and give greater visibility to the talent driving local government forward.
Brought to you by LGC, the trusted voice of local government for over 160 years, the awards are open to officers, teams, councils and partners across the UK. Every entry will be judged on evidence, impact and outcomes, providing a powerful platform to recognise excellence, share success and inspire the next generation of local government leaders.
Nominating someone is quick and easy, simply tell us who they are and why they deserve recognition in just a couple of sentences. There are no lengthy forms, essays, or supporting evidence required. You can nominate yourself, a colleague, or someone whose work inspires you.
Nominations are open for five weeks, so don't miss your chance to celebrate excellence.
Countdown to Nomination Deadline
How it works
Recognising outstanding work should be simple. The Inspiring Women in Local Government Awards, hosted by Local Government Chronicle, celebrate the individuals, teams, councils and partners making a real difference across the sector. Whether you're putting forward a colleague, your team, or yourself, the process is quick, straightforward and designed to showcase the incredible impact being made in local government.
Make a nomination
Nominate a colleague, a friend or even yourself. Nominations are open for five weeks, so don’t miss your chance to recognise outstanding achievement.
Entries open
All nominees are invited to submit their entry, and direct entries are also welcome during this stage.
Judging
Entries are assessed by our distinguished judging panel, made up of senior leaders from across local government.
Shortlist announced
Our finalist are revealed, and tables for the awards ceremony go on sale. Book early to secure your place.
Awards ceremony
Join us in London for a spectacular evening as we celebrate excellence and announce this year’s winners. We look forward to seeing you there!
250+
attendees
14
categories
30+
judges
1
inspiring awards
WHY IT MATTERS?
Local government is undergoing its biggest transformation in a generation. This is a critical moment to recognise the women delivering vital services, driving change and shaping the future of the sector.
WHAT IS THE IMPACT?
These awards amplify the achievements, stories and leadership of talented women, increasing visibility, celebrating contribution and inspiring the next generation of local government leaders.
WHY IS THE EVENT RELEVANT?
As new councils, strategic authorities and leadership teams emerge, recognising women’s impact now ensures their voices and achievements are seen at the moment they matter most.
Key dates
|
Nominations deadline |
4 September 2026 |
|
Entry deadline |
2 October 2026 |
|
Judging |
12 October - 23 October 2026 |
|
Shortlist announcement |
30 October 2026 |
|
Event date |
2 December 2026 |
Become a 2026 Partner
Partnering with the Inspiring Women in Local Government Awards offers a unique platform to connect with local governments most influential leaders and change makers. As a partner, your brand will gain unparalleled visibility, aligning with an event that celebrates excellence, diversity, and leadership. Benefit from prominent branding across a targeted marketing campaign, before, during, and after the Awards, reaching both the Inspiring Women in Local Government Awards and Local Government Chronicles audiences, and positioning your organisation at the heart of the profession’s most inspiring celebration.