The Improvement Service is to sponsor an awards programme recognising the best of the Scottish public and voluntary sectors launched by The Herald.

The Herald Society Awards 2008 aims to recognise the efforts and contributions of workers in the public and voluntary sectors. It will highlight some of the work taking place throughout Scotland to improve the lives of individuals and communities.

The awards are open to all those working in the public and voluntary sectors; small and large organisations, individuals and teams.

Awards will be presented in 12 categories. The Improvement Service is sponsoring the award for 'Best Practice Initiative of the Year'. This will honour a project or programme that demonstrates innovation and real achievement in areas such as increasing efficiency, ensuring Best Value and inter-agency collaboration.

An overall Herald Society Champion will be chosen from among the category winners.

Further information on the awards, plus an entry form, can be found at www.theherald.co.uk/societyawards08/. The closing date for entries is 23 September 2008 and the winners will be announced in November 2008.