sponsored by Big Green Book
This award will recognise what is judged to be the best council publication, produced either in magazine or newspaper format and distributed to residents on a regular basis. Criteria include design, content, journalism, corporate ID, plain english, social inclusion (demonstrating that diverse social groups have been considered in its content), print accessibility, print quality and cost-effectiveness.

2011 Winner: Derbyshire County Council - b_line Youth Magazine
Derbyshire County Council expanded on its existing young persons’ travel and discount card (b_line) by launching a complimentary magazine, which features real-life stories about issues such as drugs, alcohol, domestic violence, eating disorders and problems with body image. These are backed up by non-judgemental contributions from local experts. The result is a publication that wouldn’t look out of place on a newsagent’s shelf.

Commended: St. Helens Council - First
Regional, national and even Sky TV has picked up exclusive stories from St. Helens First. The aim of the quarterly magazine has always been to engage readers rather than lecture, and the jargon-free, easy to understand language is pitched at the wider community to help guide and signpost them to services. St. Helens has high levels of social deprivation, and St. Helens First is now universally accepted as the main communication channel for the Council.

Commended: Stoke-on-Trent Council - Our City
After 21 issues, Our City continues to draw positive reader feedback, attracts high levels of response to consultations, and generates good responses for the organisations it features. A team of experienced journalists work closely with the council’s communications team to find strong news and features which show the impact public services have on the neighbourhoods and individuals they serve.

Commended: Ealing Council - Around Ealing
A review of communications was carried out in a climate of significant budget cuts across the council. Instead of simply cutting the frequency of the existing magazine, a decision was taken to instead adapt, develop and improve. The result is a completely refreshed publication, with a switch to a more compact format and a change to 100% recycled paper. The smaller pages lend themselves to double-page spreads and also means a lower page rate for advertisers. It will cost 36p per household per year, compared to 72p per year previously.

Commended: Westminster City Council - Westminster Plus
Launched in February 2008, Westminster Plus is a niche magazine that makes a real impact on the lives of older people. It was revamped in September 2010 following reader feedback to focus on making the most of retirement and keeping healthy. A diverse range of local residents form the backbone of the magazine appearing on front covers and throughout the publication.