WORCESTERSHIRE County Council has won a national award for excellence in public procurement.

Beating off competition from six finalists, the county council and KiddiVouchers demonstrated how their excellent partnership helps working parents save money with their childcare costs.

This won them the best small business or third sector service provider category in the Government Opportunities Awards.

In January 2008 the council appointed KiddiVouchers to introduce a childcare voucher scheme for council employees.

The scheme, which saves parents up to £1,196 each year on the cost of childcare, has attracted about 500 members since it was launched.

Kenny Brown, head of human resources at the council, said: “This demonstrates our commitment to our staff as a good employer.”

KiddiVouchers was chosen to run the scheme following a thorough procurement process when then company’s quality of service and value for money approach helped it stand out from the competition.

To find out how the scheme works, telephone KiddiVouchers on 0800 6129015 or visit kiddi vouchers.com.