HEALTH and social care staff could be in with the chance of winning an award to celebrate the efforts and hard work of NHS and social care workers.

The Health and Social Care Awards 2001 combine the Nye Bevan, NHS Equality and Social Care Award ceremonies.

Local staff are being invited to enter individuals or teams into the six categories; lifetime achievement, innovation, improving working lives, modernisation, improving the lives of people and working in partnership.

The winner will be presented with £10,000 to use on spreading information or developing their service at a ceremony on July 5.

Chief executive of Buckinghamshire Health Authority, Jackie Haynes, said: "This is a wonderful chance to show staff that they are appreciated and to raise the profile of excellence in health and social care services.

"I hope local NHS and social care staff will enter."

For information on entering contact 0121 777 1001 or visit www.doh.gov.uk/healthandsocialcareawards