Beacon Scheme

The Beacon Scheme was introduced in 1999 to identify excellence in local government from which others can learn.

Local authorities and other best value authorities (e.g. Police, Fire, National Parks) - and increasingly, wider partnerships - are awarded Beacon status on the strength of excellence in the delivery of services, supported by good overall performance and effective plans for spreading good practice.

In each round of the scheme Ministers from different Government Departments select themes under which authorities can apply for Beacon status. The themes are issues which local people and local authorities consider important, and as such reflect key priorities in the Government's agenda.

The Beacon status award winners are usually announced at an event each spring. At this time the themes for the following year are published. Round 10 is currently in progress.

The IDeA operates the Beacon scheme for Communities and Local Government. Further details about the scheme - including its history, latest announcements and information on how to apply - can be found at www.beacons.idea.gov.uk (external link).