NILGA award for Carrick councillor

The ‘Best Initiative by a Councillor' award identified her tireless work to promote ‘Positive Mental Health in Mid and East Antrim’.

This work includes the installation of mental health awareness benches throughout the Borough, the ‘little library’ in Shaftesbury Park, securing funding for various sports clubs to increase capacity and improve both physical and mental health along with organising 'Take 5' events.

Councils throughout Northern Ireland celebrated at the event which was hosted by Sarah Travers at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.

The Awards are co-ordinated by NILGA and the Association of Public Service Excellence (APSE), this year they attracted 58 entries and showcased brilliance in service provision, new initiatives and the personal commitment from councils, councillors, staff and partners.

The categories are designed to foster innovation, exceptional commitment and great work, providing opportunities for local government’s staff and members to step forward and learn from great example.

Cllr Johnston said: “I am delighted to have won this award, especially in an area that means so much to me. I recognise that so much more needs to be done and I will continue to promote positive mental health throughout our borough in any way I can.”