Barnsley Council shortlisted in prestigious LGC Awards 2026

We’re delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted in two categories at the 2026 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards, recognising our innovation, partnership working, and commitment to improving residents’ lives. 

The three shortlisted projects reflect the real difference we’re making for people, showcasing how our collective efforts are helping to create a thriving, healthier and better-connected borough. 

Public/Public Partnership - Barnsley MiCard 

Launched last August, the Barnsley MiCard scheme offers free bus travel for under-18s, helping young people to reach school, training, work placements, and other opportunities across the borough and South Yorkshire. 

With a joint investment of £6 million, including £5 million from Barnsley Council, and a strong partnership with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the scheme is removing financial barriers, reducing inequalities, and boosting independence for our young people. 

Since the scheme began, over 17,800 cards have been issued, enabling over one million journeys and setting a blueprint for potential regional expansion. 

Public/Public Partnership - Health on the High Street 

Our pioneering Health on the High Street programme is revolutionising how we deliver health and wellbeing services in Barnsley. By bringing more diagnostic, outpatient and wellbeing services from Barnsley Hospital into the heart of our town centre, we’re creating the UK’s largest high street-based health and wellbeing hub. 

So far, the Community Diagnostic Centre in The Glass Works, the first phase of our ambitious plans, has delivered more than 220,000 appointments, reducing waiting times, increasing footfall, and strengthening access to essential care. 

Last November, we welcomed the first patients to the new health and wellbeing hub at the Alhambra which is already offering Ophthalmology, Optometry and Retinal Screening appointments as part of its phased opening. 

The project represents a major partnership between Barnsley Council, local NHS services, public health, community organisations, and regeneration partners. 

Community Involvement - Love Where You Live  

Relaunched last June with a £3.5 million investment, our Love Where You Live programme brings council teams, housing partners, schools, local groups and residents together to create a borough we’re all proud to call home. 

We’re focused on improving local areas, parks, and green spaces, strengthening involvement and community pride, and addressing environmental issues.  

Funding has been allocated to bring forward community enhancement projects in every Barnsley ward, and we’re encouraging community groups to apply for grants for projects that bring people together. 

A dedicated Action Team working side by side with communities has been created to help clean up our neighbourhoods, with 583 volunteer hours contributed and 81 tonnes of waste removed so far.  

These projects are just some of the ways Love Where You Live is helping to restore pride, strengthen connections, and create safer, cleaner local environments. 

Sarah Norman OBE, Chief Executive of Barnsley Council, said: 

This is a fantastic achievement that reflects the bold, brave and innovative work taking place across Barnsley. These projects show what we can accomplish when we invest in our communities, listen to our residents and work together to make Barnsley a place of possibilities for everyone.

Councillor Sir Steve Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said:

These projects are changing lives every day. Building on our double Council of the Year award in 2023, being recognised nationally reflects the continued strength and ambition of our teams and our partners, and our shared commitment to Barnsley’s future.

The winners will be announced at the LGC Awards ceremony on Wednesday 10 June 2026.