Launched in 2002, the Beacon scheme identifies excellence and innovation in local government.
Themes are selected for each round of the scheme by government ministers. The themes represent issues which are important in the day-to-day lives of the public and reflect key government priorities.
Beacon status is granted to those authorities who can demonstrate a clear vision, excellent services and a willingness to innovate within a theme.
Beacon status in Greenwich
Greenwich has been awarded Beacon Status in the following areas:
Olympic Games and Paralympics Legacy 2009
The Olympic and Paralympic Legacy award recognises those authorities who are already increasing participation in:
- sports
- volunteering and cultural activity
- regenerating communities
- improving local skills and business capacity ahead of 2012.
They also need to show a committment to continuing this work afterwards.
Read about the Olympic Legacy Beacon
More about London 2012
Homes for the Future 2009
The Homes for the Future theme – in which Greenwich was the only London authority selected – recognises those authorities that have shown outstanding performance on plans outlined in the 'Homes for the Future' green paper, such as:
- addressing housing needs and affordability
- making sure that the local housing market meets local demand.
Housing in Greenwich
Reducing Health Inequalities 2008
In the 2008 Reducing Health Inequalities theme, our overall rating was Outstanding – the highest possible score. We introduced a number of innovative programmes to support health improvement and reduce health inequalities, which were praised by the Panel.
Health and social care
Improving Accessibility 2008
Greenwich was awarded Beacon status for the year 2008 - 2009 for Improving Accessibility.
Read about the Improving Accessibility Beacon.
Cleaner Air 2007
The Council received a 2007 Beacon Award for delivering cleaner air.
Find out about the work we are doing to protect the environment.
Valuing People 2006 - 2007
Greenwich was awarded Beacon Status for Valuing People, this is because of the services we provide for people with learning disabilities.
Read about the Valuing People Beacon.
Affordable Housing 2005 - 2006
The Council was awarded Beacon Status for 2005-2006 as one of the leading providers of
affordable housing in London.
Read about the Affordable Housing Beacon.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism 2004 - 2005
The Council's commitment to Promoting Sustainable Tourism achieved the Beacon award for 2004-2005. We were one of only six councils to achieved this standard.
Read about the Promoting Sustainable Tourism Beacon.
Removing Barriers to Work 2003 - 2004
The Council's progress in tackling unemployment was awarded under the Removing Barriers to Work theme in 2003-2004.
Read about the Removing Barriers to Work Beacon.