A new awards scheme to recognise the hard work and achievement of local people and organisations improving services in their neighbourhoods through local management initiatives, was launched by Yvette Cooper, Minister for Regeneration.
Nominations for the Neighbourhood Management Awards 2003 are being invited from anyone who wishes to reward the success of residents and local organisations in the local service sector who are engaged in or developing neighbourhood management.

There will be 11 categories of award. These will be:
· Liveability Award.
· Cohesion Award.
· Personal Achievement Awards - Resident.
· Personal Achievement Awards - Neighbourhood Manager.
· Personal Achievement Awards - Service Provider.
· Personal Achievement Awards - Elected Member.
· Mainstreaming Award.
· Best Supporting Organisation Award.
· Innovation Award.
· Youth Award.
· Neighbourhood Management Partnership of the Year Award.

Across the country, Neighbourhood Management is raising the standard of key services by joining up the efforts of the public, private, community and voluntary sectors.
Existing schemes are already successfully tackling local problems with crime, unemployment, housing, health and the environment.

Winners will receive £1000 to be used on neighbourhood management-related initiatives or activities to benefit their local community.

Launching the awards, Yvette Cooper Minister for Regeneration said: "Most people do not stop to think what a tremendous contribution some people make to the lives of others within their own communities. The Neighbourhood Management Awards offer the chance for communities to praise those who have shown commitment and innovation to improving local services and make a positive difference in their area."

The closing date for nominations is 14 October 2003. Nomination forms can be found on the web site www.neighbourhood.gov.uk or by telephoning AVA Ltd, 020 7227 3467.