Dudley Council’s adult social care team have been praised after narrowly missing out on a national award for their work in the borough during the coronavirus pandemic.

The team saw off competition from more than 200 applicants to be selected as one of just 10 finalists in the “Outstanding Response to Covid in Social Care” category at this year’s LaingBuisson Awards.

The awards recognise and celebrate industry excellence in the UK health and social care services within public, private and third sectors.There were more than 400 submissions across all categories, with Dudley the only local authority in the country to be shortlisted in this category.

The winner of the award, announced this week, was local care provider MiHomecare Limited. Matt Bowsher, director for adult social care, said:

"Although ultimately we didn’t win, we are absolutely delighted and over the moon to have been nominated for this award and congratulate MiHomecare Ltd.

"I understand there were a record-breaking number of nominations so to make the final shortlist, especially as the only local authority in the country, is really fantastic.

"It is well-deserved national recognition for a team that has gone above and beyond to make sure the most vulnerable in our borough have been looked after and protected during the coronavirus crisis. Credit also must be given to every care provider and carer in the borough."