The scheme rewards partnerships which can demonstrate how their innovative services bring real benefits to citizens.

The aims of the scheme are to:

• identify, acknowledge and spread innovation and excellence
• raise standards by promoting best practice through peer learning and knowledge transfer
• mprove services to make a real difference to quality of life and life chances for individuals and communities
• give national recognition to local, frontline services and partnerships.

The new scheme is now open for entries, and applications close at 5pm on Tuesday 27 October 2009 .
Find out more about the scheme and apply online – on the Local Innovation Awards Scheme website