Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s efforts to support vulnerable members of the community has once again been recognised by a panel of judges.

The authority has been named Benefits and/or Welfare Reform Team of the Year at the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation’s Performance Awards, as well as being highly commended in the Excellence in Social Inclusion category.

Work to engage with and help harder-to-reach groups in the district, such as armed forces veterans, was praised by the jury at a ceremony last week.

The awards celebrate best practice in the local taxation, benefits and valuation industries.

Cllr Tim Prater – Cabinet Member for Revenues, Benefits, Anti-Fraud and Corruption – said: “Our welfare team continues to take huge steps in reaching out and supporting residents facing difficult times.

“That includes making sure people know what assistance is available, from the council and other organisations, by providing a comprehensive package tailored to the individual.

“This success at the 2022 Performance Awards highlights the magnificent work we are doing every day to best help those in difficulty.”

Judges were also impressed by the £221,000 worth of projects delivered in Folkestone & Hythe through the Household Support Fund – some of which included delivering beds to children sleeping on mattresses or on the floor.

Leader Cllr David Monk added: “This important work is not done with awards in mind, but this recognition certainly underlines the customer-first mindset we have here at Folkestone & Hythe District Council.”

Visit irrv.net/awards for more information about the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation’s Performance Awards.