Customer Service Direct (CSD), a partnership between Suffolk County Council, Mid Suffolk District Council and BT, has got through to the finals in the e-Government Excellence: Joined-Up Services category of the competition, which is run by the Cabinet Office.
Three walk-in centres have been opened in Eye, Stowmarket and Needham Market in the past year, and a telephone contact service and a transactional web site established.
Residents and businesses can access more than 300 services and no longer need to know which council provides the service they need.
CSD has also established a partnership with Citizens Advice and offers online access to council services at Mid Suffolk libraries.
Sue Sida-Lockett, Suffolk County Council's portfolio holder for customer services and efficiencies said:
"We know the benefits that Customer Service Direct brings to residents in Suffolk - an easier way to access services, and better value for money for council tax payers.
"It's great that these benefits are now being recognised nationally."
The e-Government National Awards recognise excellence in innovative government services, whether through central government departments, councils or voluntary organisations.
The winners will be announced at an event at the Savoy Hotel in London on January 25 with Cabinet Office Minister Jim Murphy MP and Ian Watmore, head of the Cabinet Office e-Government Unit.
Quelle: EDP24, 23.11.2005
